Most golfers become nervous on the course when they feel they are out of control. They might start off on the first hole feeling okay, but as the round progresses, and one or two wayward shots creep in, understandably it leads to apprehension.
All too often they start thinking about what they can do with their swing, to hit the ball better. They might try a new swing thought for the next shot, and another after that. Soon the mind becomes clogged with thought, and the uncertainty leads the golfer to become more and more nervous.
Control Golf Nerves and Overcome Doubt
If you can create a game plan to deal with the crisis situation, when it inevitably arrives, it will help to focus the mind on a positive thing rather than slip into the negative zone, where nerves run rampant.
The key is to find a swing thought that you stick to for the whole round. If you can discipline yourself to stick to the game plan, no matter what, it will help control the nerves that come through doubt. Your mind will be clear and not cluttered with trying to fix the swing, and you will be much more able to stay calm and relaxed. You will be in control.
Create a Swing Thought
Before you play, either as you are driving to the course, or on the range hitting warm up shots, come up with your swing thought of the day. It really doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you’ve tried it and it seems to work. For example swing to a finish or watch the ball closely. If you have lessons make sure you commit to what you have been told to do by your pro.
Make a promise to yourself that no matter how badly you play, you will stick with the game plan and commit to your swing thought on every shot. If you know beforehand that no matter what happens you will not try anything else, when one or two wayward shots crop up, you will not become so anxious.
Keep your Mind Clear
The key to this is commitment and discipline. It is inevitable for any golfer to want to tinker with their golf swing if it’s starting to break down, but if you can discipline yourself to stick to the game plan, and your swing thought of the day, you will be less nervous and more in control.
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John Hoskison - John is a class 'A' member of the British PGA and author of the acclaimed book 'Inside - One Man's Experience of Prison'.
