re: After hitting a bad shot, what’s next?

There’s a guy in my golf league who was a 20+ handicap that learned to manage his game. Always plays within himself. If he was too far from a green to be comfortable, he’d lay up short and wedge on. He’d drive it away from bunkers, water, OB. Even clubbing down if he didn’t feel comfortable. He played for bogey on every hole and treated like a par when he made one. Pars we’re like birdies. He also grinded hard to become a great putter. Even installed a putting green at his house.

2 years later, he’s a 16.4 and owns his game. He’ll probably be a 10-11 in another year or two.