Recently I played a few rounds with some new players I had met while travelling. I don't normally tell people I authored a book called "Golf Like A Pro: Golf Tips for Weekend Warriors" because during the match there are so many interesting things to see and do.
These three rounds were different because I found a common theme and it jumped out at me like a snake in the grass.
This has inspired my thoughts on how your confidence can effect your game and certainly your score.
I encountered three different golfers who were undermining their own games and probably didn't even know it.
You may recognize them in your playing partners.
Here is what they said -- out loud.
"I can't putt, probably won't make this" -- This one was from 3 feet out.
"I hate sand shots"
"I can't hit over water. Got a bag full of old balls so when I get to water holes, I pull 'em out"
Oh, and I should mention they said these things repeatedly.
I used to be the "I hate sand shots" guy till I learned how to hit from sand and NOW when I am in sand, I still think up and down in two. Why? Because, your brain and your body respond positively to the messages you send it.
You control those thoughts when you see you see your ball 'at the beach'.
So, what is the thing you have low confidence in when you approach it?
Is it any of these?
- hitting over water
- hitting a 3 wood on the fairway
- hitting into wind
- 2 foot putts
- dog leg left (when you slice)
- green-side or fairway bunkers
- "insert fear of your choice here"
- teeing off on the first tee and an audience
- 18th hole of match play and being up/down by one
What thoughts go though your head and what do you say out loud?
Since this is a GAME its time to play a GAME with your mind.
You see wind, you smile. You imagine you love to hit into wind AND you say out loud, "I love to hit these shots" You picture the one time you did it right.
Then you go into your pre-shot routine (you do have one right?) and step up to the ball and do not hesitate.
If, by some outside chance an old thought patter creeps back into your mind, step away from the ball and start again.
You will truly smile when this works for you.
I hope you master ALL of the thoughts that decrease your confidence or hold you back.
Source: Free Golf Tip Newsletter
Number 43 of 52