The reading level for this article is Novice

“One stroke at a time.” In a recent inter-view, Tiger Woods shared this simple formula for success. He further revealed that his habit to focus on the task at hand and not the previous stroke nor the next stroke keeps him self-disciplined.

The Tiger Woods “One stroke at a time” is a brilliant example of short-term goal setting and more importantly goal accomplishment. Each stroke is a short-term goal. The obstacles are viewed from hazards to weather conditions. Solutions appear to be instantaneously created with action steps quickly following. With the completion of each short-term goal, Tiger Woods is that much closer to completing the long-term goal of completing and hopefully winning the game. Each completed game then reverts to a short term goal allowing him to work towards his long term goal or dream of being the very best in the game of golf ~ past, present and future.

The Tiger Woods “One stroke at a time” is a brilliant example of short-term goal setting and more importantly goal accomplishment. Each stroke is a short-term goal. The obstacles are viewed from hazards to weather conditions. Solutions appear to be instantaneously created with action steps quickly following. With the completion of each short-term goal, Tiger Woods is that much closer to completing the long-term goal of completing and hopefully winning the game. Each completed game then reverts to a short term goal allowing him to work towards his long term goal or dream of being the very best in the game of golf ~ past, present and future.

Goal setting is a behavior that when used consistently and correctly guarantees success 98% of the time. The problem is that many individuals look to long term goals and do not include supporting short-term goals. Short-terms goals, “one stroke at a time,” are the foundation for the successful completion of long-term goals.

Goal setting is a behavior that when used consistently and correctly guarantees success 98% of the time. The problem is that many individuals look to long term goals and do not include supporting short-term goals. Short-terms goals, “one stroke at a time,” are the foundation for the successful completion of long-term goals.

Tiger Woods’ positive attitude about the past and the future also greatly contribute to his ability to achieve his goals. Attitudes are really habits of thought. Tiger’s habit of thought by focusing on the present allows him to stay self-disciplined and self-directed thereby accomplishing both short and long-term goals.

With over 20 years of practice, Tiger has mastered the physical skill of golf and has developed extensive knowledge about this sport through years of application. His skill level supports his positive attitudes and goal setting behavior. Finally, Tiger Woods also revealed that even though becoming the best golfer the world has ever seen is his long-term goal, he realizes that his life must have balance. We can see and hear of this balance when Tiger talks about family and friends.

Everyone from business leaders to individuals can take a lesson from this young man on how to begin to accomplish your goals both personally and professionally

  • Develop and maintain positive attitudes
  • Become an expert
  • Stay balanced and remember

    “One stroke at a time”


This Personal Development article was written by Leanne Hoagland-Smith, M.S. on 3/17/2005

Leanne Hoagland-Smith, M.S. connects passion, purpose and performance to achieve sustainable results. Please contact her at 219.759.5601 or leanne@perpetualsuccess.com.