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!
Continue readingMental Preparation
Playing To My Handicap Put Into The Finals Of The Stroke Match Play Tournament
I made it to the finals of the Osprey Links Stroke Match Play Club Championship. It is the first for me to make it this far. In the past I usually lost in the semi or quarter finals. But not this year; this year I made it to the final match by playing my handicap or at least very close too it. I have said for years that to compete in any tournament, just shoot your handicap or a bit better. Most players do not respond well during competition and generally shoot higher than expected. My approach is a great recipe for success.
Continue readingThe First Tee Jitters By Tom Watson
Many golfers get nervous on the first tee. Their minds, well at least mind does, fills with potential danger and concern about hitting a missed shot. This continual challenge is one that I believe I have conquered. This does not mean I always hit the ball well, but at least I do not dread the first tee as I wait for my turn. It took me some time to overcome my apprehension by developing a process of coping that suits my game; additionally, I came across a video by Tom Watson that will hopefully help if you are struggling with your first tee shot.
Continue readingA Round Of Golf When Nothing Happens
Have you ever played a round of golf where nothing of interest every happens? You know, the rounds when you are hitting the ball okay, chipping, okay and putting okay. Your scoring is average and not matter what your thought processes are, no magic rears its head to be marveled at. It is a bland round and mentally, there is nothing you can do to prevent this mediocre round for unfolding any differently. It is as if you might as well as stayed home and cut the grass.
Continue readingWhat Is Your Biggest Worry On The Golf Course
In my earlier years, I was wracked with worry when I teed it up! If I entered into a competition (friendly or serious) forget it; I would seize up for a hole or two until I hit a few good balls and had time to relax. Of course as time progressed and my game improved, I started to worry less and less. This does not mean that I do not have any worries, but any fears about my general game is overruled by my mental game.
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The Grateful Golfer 