Mind Games

The mind has no limits yet we limit ourselves every time we step on the tee. I am a great believer in positive thinking. Every time we step on the tee we must believe we can achieve our best game every round and not relive our last round.

Pre Round Thinking

Pre round thinking is as important as pre round practice. We need to spend time re-living were it is possible our best rounds and shots as often as possible. The mind needs exercise just like the body. Too often we will get to the first tee and remember the last bad tee shot we hit or more often than not the last tee shot we hit on that particular hole. What we need to do is relive our best shot in our mind in as much detail as possible, where you were, what you were wearing and who you were with. Using these mind skills can transform our body language and our mental attitude.

Pre Shot Routine

This should start as soon as you’ve hit your last shot. Start picturing the next shot and then relive past experiences as described above. When you get to your ball, assess the conditions and the lie of the ball and make your decision, what club to hit and what kind of shot to hit. Always stick to your decision once you have addressed the ball be positive never be indecisive. Also include into your routine at least one practise swing that represents the kind of shot you are going to play. Then draw a line in your mind from your target back to the ball and pick a spot to aim at on the ground ideally 2 to 3 inches in front of the ball. Then stare your target down. All good players stare at the target and all bad players stare at the ball.

Post Shot Routine

Also evaluate each and every shot, were you 100% focused, did you prepare. If the answers are yes and the shot was not as desired then you can put it down to technique and execution.

Conclusion

Give yourself every chance to succeed. Try to give yourself a birdie chance every hole. Believe you can score 54 every time you grace the tee and instead of thinking how many shots you have left to play to your handicap think how many holes you have left to better your score. Aim for the stars and you might reach the clouds. Play well and always keep stats and prioritise your practise in accordance with the results.