It takes more than hard work to lower your golf score. You also need the desire and drive to become a better golfer, and you need to be willing to practice until you've reached your potential. With a clear plan of action and a true desire to be better, you will become a more successful golfer and you will lower your score.

* Put Your Mind to It

Golf is largely a game of wits, and truly good golfers can successfully combine their golf skills with their mental abilities. By changing and improving how you think and feel about the game of golf, you'll see improvements in your game and your score. A good attitude is crucial and will help you to evolve into a better player.

* Practice Your Putts

Whenever you have a spare moment, take the time to practice putting. Practice at home and at the office. Pick up a portable putting green that you can take with you. Repeated practice will help you to gain control over the putter, and will in turn give you better control over the ball. The extra efforts today will result in skills that you'll appreciate over time. Practice as much as you can.

* Understand the Green

Your knowledge of the terrain can make or break your game. Know the greens, the traps and the fairways. Play with different clubs until you're sure which ones work best in each situation. Be ready for any situation and you will be able to overcome any challenges that come your way. Understand the green and you'll be on top of your game.

* Listen to Criticism

You will always meet golfers that have a little more experience. If you're lucky, he or she will offer to share that hard-earned knowledge with you. It's important that you're able to recognize your own shortcomings, accept criticism and embrace the opinions that are offered to you. Improving your weak areas is often the only way to better your game and lower your golf score. Accept advice from other golfers and use it whenever you can. They've learned their lessons the hard way, and can offer valuable information to solve your problems and give you a professional edge.

* Stay Cool

Don't play the big shot on the green. Go ahead and celebrate your personal victories, but remember that no one likes a showoff. Don't come across as arrogant when you're playing a great game. Be proud of your efforts and your success, and keep your ego in check. Your great score will be little consolation if no one will play the next round with you.

You can ask the pros, watch the videos and read the books, but all of the tricks, tips and advice mean nothing if you don't practice. Apply the bits of wisdom you collect to the game you play. When you do hit the green be sure to relax and have fun. Don't forget, golf is really just a game.