Keeping your composure when the wheels fall off is the most difficult skill in golf.  All of us have played the front nine as if we were pros.  We start to count things up, figure that we are going to set a personal recorded…..the poof, our game comes crashing to earth.

I am sure many of you are thinking….yeah too many times.  So how does an amateur keep their composure when things are falling apart.  This does not mean showing zero emotion like Jason Dufner;  it means keeping calm like Rory Mcilroy during the 2011 Masters.  Staying focused when the whole world is falling down around you.  So what to do?

The great Bobby Jones referred to composure when he said that “Competitive golf is played mainly on a five-and-a-half-inch course, the space between your ears.”  I have read many different methods to keep your composure and I have my several techniques.

One technique is to laugh and smile at my silly shot.  I do not hop around like a fool, but smile to myself and give a little chuckle.  I find that I remain calm and I can easily refocus and prepare for my next shot.

Another technique is to say my name to myself like I am correcting something.  It is sharp, quick and allows me to move on without carrying pent up emotions.

Lastly, I walk to my ball, look around at the beautiful surroundings, the sun shining, the birds singing, the gratitude of being able to play golf in an awesome country….I feel calm already.  I guess you get my point.

The one thing in common with all three techniques is they quickly eliminate the negative focus of making a bad shot and focuses on the positive aspect of playing the game.  Golf is meant to challenge your inner sportsman and remaining calm and enjoying your time on the links will only enhance your inner pro.  I am a grateful golfer;  see you on the links!