What do you do after you hit a disappointing shot? If you are like most golfers, you’ll try to figure out what went wrong. After a few disappointments you may even start to get mad at yourself, and the downward spiral begins.
Do you spend as much time focusing on and enjoying the good shots? Probably not. The bad news is that human nature has a tendency to keep us focused on problems and not what we do well. The good news is that you can train your brain to think and perform differently.
The first step is to stop the behavior. Acknowledge your negative reaction to the shot and then let it go. Accept that golf is a game that will offer you success and failure. As a golfer, you need to be comfortable with both.
Next, make it your intention to focus your attention on what you do well. When you perform well, take the time to enjoy it. Allowing yourself to stay in the moment and enjoy the experience will make you much more likely to continue to perform.
The truth is, if you feel good, you will play well. If you happen to hit a shot that is not up to par, disregard it and move on. Act as if you have no idea who hit that shot!
Learn to focus your attention on what you do well and shoot lower scores.
Doug Hodges developed his expertise as a performance coach at La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, Calif. He now offers his ThinkWorkPlay programs at the Heritage Golf Club in Wake Forest and Grandover Resort in Greensboro. All golfers, from the Tour player to novice, now have the opportunity to develop the tools to unlock their potential, have more fun, and lower their scores. To learn more visit www.thinkworkplay.com.
