The golf objectives you should want to achieve in 2026

For many of us, a new year brings with it fresh ambitions and renewed focus. It's an opportunity to look forward and chart your expectations for the months ahead. 

What do you hope to achieve, where do you want to go, who do you wish to see, these are all thoughts that will at least flicker in the minds of most people, but for golfers, those questions are even more pertinent, as we are typically aspirational creatures at heart, always hoping that the next shot will be a dream one.

But what should be on your list to accomplish on the golf course? 

Here are some objectives that we think would come together to complete a truly memorable golf season.

Visit More Golf Courses in 2026

(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)

Whether you're someone who likes to travel or prefers to stay closer to home, there are so many courses out there for you to experience, all with their own charms and unique qualities. It's ultimately what makes this game special - the sheer variety of canvases that we can choose from.

Thousands of golfers visit new courses and leave reviews on Golfshake each year. Why not join them?

Play More Rounds Than You Did in 2025

Some of us would probably play golf every day if we could, but even if that doesn't describe you, we wouldn't be averse to playing a little more often this year.

If you played 100 times last year, why not aim to surpass that? For those who barely played at all in 2025, it becomes even easier. Having not been on a golf course since June, this is the first goal that I have set myself to reach in 2026. I'm keen to play more regularly - and it's certainly achievable.

Finish 2026 With a Better Handicap

You might be someone who simply plays for fun and doesn't even keep score - and there is nothing wrong with that - but for those of you who do routinely have a card in hand, then shooting lower rounds and finishing the season with a better handicap than you started with is a timeless ambition for any golfer.

How you get there can be through playing more rounds, tidying up mistakes, practicing more frequently, getting a lesson or two, or even analysing your game through the Golfshake Score Tracker. 

Playing golf is fun - but playing it well is even better and more satisfying.

Fancy a Golf Holiday?

Travelling abroad to sunnier climes or a bucket list destination for golf is something that all golfers should enjoy at least once, so why not make that a desire for this year?

Our travel partners Golfbreaks have the best deals and packages for you to sift through and there is undeniably something for everyone, whether it be a holiday for a group of friends, couples, or even families. 

Playing golf in a different country can be truly rewarding.

Book a Golf Lesson

Golf can be frustrating and difficult - especially when you're not getting better, no matter how hard you try, or you are even getting worse.

Yes, there are tips online and videos to watch that can be engaging and informative, but there is no substitute for having trained eyes looking at your swing and technique in person.

Booking a golf lesson can be a game-changer - so why not find a recommended professional near you this year?

Spend More Time Practicing

The journey to improvement takes considerable work. Spending time at the practice area or visiting the range is a vital component to ensuring that your game is as sharp as possible. 

While it can help you to find greater consistency and shoot lower scores, introducing regular range time into your routine, when possible, can be enriching in several respects, keeping you engaged mentally and offering the perfect distraction from the anxieties and pressures of daily life.

Make New Golfing Friends

You probably have a circle of regular playing partners whose company you enjoy, but why not try and meet someone else and grow your number of golfing acquaintances? 

One of the great things about this sport is being able to get to know someone in the environment of a golf course, and having more friends who play this game can open up more opportunities, whether it be the chance to play more often, visit different courses, and make connections that wouldn't otherwise be possible.

Introduce Someone New to Golf

This could be the hardest of the lot for you to accomplish in 2026, but introducing someone new to golf, or even getting someone back into the game, is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. 

It could be a child, a partner, friend, relative, or even a colleague, but gifting someone else the joy of golf is something that they - and you - will always be grateful for.