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This is the year I become a single-digit handicap. I’ve been on the brink before, getting down to a 10 at one point several years ago, but never to that sacred single digit. I’m going to actually invest in some serious practice time — yes, practice — and maybe even some lessons to see if I can finally get over the hump. I’m ready to do whatever it takes. —Tim Reilly
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Peg it more. Yeah, I know everyone says that, but with a foursome of little(ish) ones at home, I’ve been playing about as much golf as 2016 Tiger. With my 7-year-old starting to find his swing (and not yet mortified to hang with his old man), I’m hopeful that development translates into more of my own swings next summer. I’m also keen to get fit for irons (T. Reilly inspired me!), so I can stop blaming my aging equipment for my endless shortcomings. At least for a week or two. —Alan Bastable
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Establish an official handicap. I was going to say play more golf, but I don’t want to step on the toes of my editor. Playing more rounds is inherent in this goal, as is signing up on the USGA’s GIHN website. And because the handicap system is changing the first week of January 2020, it will be easier than ever to get one. I’ll only need to play three full rounds or six nine-hole rounds to establish one. —Rachel Bleier
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Start carrying more golf balls when I play. During my halcyon days as a scratch golfer in college, I could make it around the course unscathed without losing a pellet. Then I got married, welcomed some kids into the world and my schedule started to fill up in a big way. Newsflash: I am no longer a scratch golfer. I have a million golf balls laying around my office, so I have no excuse when it comes to following through on this resolution. I’m going to start dumping a box in the bag and dealing with the additional weight when I carry my sticks. It’s that or continually traipsing through the woods in search of a reload — and I’m getting tired of spending more time in the trees than the short grass. —Jonathan Wall
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