The Mind Game

photo credit: billypoonphotos   Golf is a mind game first, a physical game second.  No matter how good you swing the golf club, unless you can focus and concentrate on the job at hand, you will never meet your goal/s.  Focus comes in two forms:

1.)  Immediate Focus > entering an exclusive zone which is usually the 30 second period prior to and including your swing, where you are completely “in the moment.”  Immediate focus is the result of good technique, good decision-making and playing the game well.

2.)  Goal Focus > is your ability to find a reason for what you do.  In golf, it can come in many forms:  recognition, enjoyment, shooting par etc.  Having a definite goal is critical in playing good golf.

What Motivates You?

photo credit: teamstickergiant   Ask yourself what motivates you about your game?  Is it the enjoyment of the game, the competition, the recognition, or perhaps having a favorite tour super-star?  Understanding the pleasure/s you receive from the game is the key.

Reasons For Playing: 1)  playing with friends, 2)  playing new courses, 3)  winning, 4)  achieving goals, 5)  being outdoors, 6)  lowering your handicap, 7)  using new equipment.  You must try to understand your reason/s for playing in order to improve your game and the enjoyment you get from it.

For example:  If you enjoy the game because you like winning, find opponents that are better players than you.  If trying to lower your handicap is what creates enjoyment for you, spend more time on the range etc.

Develop a “Can Do” Spirit

photo credit: Steve & Jemma CopleyThe next time you are faced with a tough shot or situation, don’t worry about what could go wrong, simply say “I can do this.”  It sounds a bit contrite but it really works.  These four words will lead you to take positive steps in executing any shot.  Don’t look at your situation or bad lie with anger, which creates anxiety, look at it as if you have been through this type of shot many times before.  Tell yourself you will be successful.

Extensive research has proven that confident behavior, as in walking or talking, will cause our feelings and thoughts to emulate that very behavior.  By acting confident, you will start to feel and think confidently.  Translated to golf, it makes for a winning recipe.

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