Creating An Individualized Training System

At the dog park there are a lot of different owners and dogs to watch as I try to figure out what gestures and commands to incorporate into the puppy's own training regimen. Kind of my own, individualized Golden Retriever training system, I guess.
Some of the trainers I have watched in videos seem absolutely mean like drill sergeants or something.
Puppies are like children. They take effort, time, and a lot of attention in order to teach them to behave appropriately in different situations.
I have found a recipe for some great new treats that will be awesome little training rewards as we start working with the puppy. Of course, I have to find a way to keep it fun and entertaining for both of us or we won't ever follow through on the training regimen.