Is the first shot you describe straight left or is it a slice.
Straight left is coming into the ball on the proper swing path but the face is open and the ball may be too far back in your stance. If this is the case, try strenghting your grip a bit to make it easier to release the club or adjusting ball position.

The second shot you describe is an outside in path with an open club face. The only difference between a slice and the second shot is the degree in which the club goes outside in. In this case, as suggested by "teaching pro" in other threads, try to hit the inside quarter of the ball. Or if you need a visual aid, put a shoe box 1-2 inches ouside the target line. This will help you to promote a more inside to inside swing.

In either case, have someone, preferably a pro check your grip.