Golf is all about routine. Whether it is a pre-shot routine, a swing routine, or putting routine, the better we play is based on doing the same process and mechanics over and over again. I am a strong believer of following a process because it makes golf easier to play. I know it sounds boring, but it really is not and my scores prove that my approach is successful. The challenge is when my routines become boring and I tire of following my successful process. The good thing is I know what the challenge is and how to fix it!
Continue readingmental focus
The Possibility Of Success In Golf
Anytime we set up for a golf shot, there is a possibility of a fantastic result. This happens every time without fail. I might be looking at this scenario with rose coloured glasses, but I think if you take a moment you will see that I am definitely spot on. Golf is a game of limitless possibilities with a dash (sometimes a shovel full) of disappointment. The challenge for most players is to tap into the positive side of success while avoiding the thoughts of disaster. This situation happens on every golf shot, without fail!
Continue readingFirst Swing Of The Round
Depending on whether you had the time to prepare, if any, will likely determine your mental state on your first swing of your round. For many players, rushing from their car to the first tee is the norm and probably results in a less than optimal shot. At Osprey Links, I would say that I only prepared for the first hit occasionally due to the lack of driving range. They did have a driving net and I found this a reasonable substitute to hitting a small bucket of balls, but I did not really like using it…..so I didn’t. My lack of preparation did impact my fairway percentage and I am hoping this year at my new course I will be able to improve on my start of each round.
Continue readingDo You Rush Your Golf Shot?
Many golfers try to establish a rhythm when they play. This playing tempo drives virtually all aspects of their game and if done properly can lead to some great golf scores. If rushed then disaster can ensue. It is a matter of control, but sometimes when I play I get caught up trying to play fast, my whole processes fly out the window. The next thing I know 14 holes are over and I cannot seem to slow myself down enough to even line up a shot. It really is a challenge sometimes not to rush past the enjoyment of the round.
Continue readingFilling Your Golf Mind With Nonsense
As I navigated the holiday season, I found my attention being drawn in multiple directions simultaneously. This is not surprising because of the significant increase in sensory data that constantly bombarded my 3-foot space. It was overwhelming sometimes, but I was able to keep my sanity by shutting off all the white noise and focus my thoughts in only a few areas at once. What I found is that I was filling my mind with nonsense and realized that to function properly I needed to focus. Boy that sounds very familiar to when I am hitting a golf shot!
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The Grateful Golfer 