I agree with the others about getting to the course early enough to stretch, hit balls and practice putts, and get into the right frame of mind for the first tee. However, if you can't do that, I would suggest you downsize your expectations (may take pressure off yourself, help you relax and thus score better) and really focus on course management on the front nine (don't try for pars; play to avoid double-bogeys). If you can get to the 10th tee having played bogey golf on the front, it sounds as if you'll be in good shape. Best wishes!