Many golfers are riddled with the challenge of self-doubt. It seems to be the nature of most athletes in any sport, but golf accentuates the mental challenges of knowing our golf game. After many years of experience on the links, I still encounter situations where I know the shot and I still let negative thoughts control my play. I do immediately recognize the issue, yet I cannot change the narrative. I do believe I am not alone and most golfers, regardless of experience and skill level, face the same situation during every round of golf.

I am sure the first question you have is: if I know the problem, then I must have a solution. Actually, I do not have anything except changing the way I think about making the golf shot. It is not difficult to allow our minds to take over and draw us into a negative attitude about making shots. In fact, it seems to be the default location for most golfers. The real result of negative thinking is to add extra pressure on ourselves to perform the shot well. Unfortunately, when we build the self-pressure on our golf game, poor things are usually the result.

I found a simple video that might help. All that is suggested is that we change one word in our mind which will allow us to reduce pressure and trust our golf game.

Using the word want seems like a pretty simple fix. It really cannot be that easy…..can it. I would suggest that the simplest solution is usually the most effective. For now, I think I will give this a try. I really have nothing to lose.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!