I also use the Nicklaus method. However I will shape shots off the tee, into greens if course management demands it, weather theres an obstacle in my way or not.

If I'm hitting into a green with the pin on the right hand side and a bunker over there as well (but not a mean ugly one) instead of hitting straight to the left center of the green I will aim at that same point but put a fade on the shot to get nearer the hole.
The reason being if the fade doesn't work I'm still on the green putting and dont pull the shot when trying to fade but hitting a straight shot to the left center pulled could leave me with a messy long chip and run.
I think we should all practice shaping our shots and a 10 handicapper should be able to pick it up quite well.