Golf Psychology Introduction

It is important in Golf to work towards a target, sometimes this target may seem unreachable, and sometimes not. Who said I would ever shot a level par round, with the help of, Golf Psychology that is exactly what I did, so I exceeded my goals and you can too.

It wasn’t always this way, I have been through many swing changes and swapping equipment in an attempt to improve my game like most of us have at some time or another. Sometimes it’s not all about where your, hands, arms, feet, elbows, head, and things are at certain parts of the swing. Although these things are very important for a sound mechanical swing, it is equally important to know where your mind is during the game and more importantly during the swing.

Firstly you must admit to yourself there are two people involved in this game, your body and your mind. On occasions they can work together in perfect harmony, however sometimes one will not trust the other to perform the task ahead without interfering, this is called inner chatter causing doubt and this main reason for inconsistent Golf.

One advantage of pursuing Golf psychology, as part of your own Golfing career is that it can not be a waste of time. By its very nature, it is relevant to life, unless of course, happiness, health, and excellence are not a part of a person's life plan or dream. Which brings me to the bottom line. Golf psychology is all about pursuing dreams. In fact, people who pursue their Golfing dreams are 'getting into" Golf psychology, whether they know it or not.

Think about Golf course design for a moment, ask yourself, why is there water on the course, Why are there bunkers on the course? Why do we have doglegs, elevated tee position etc.

Let me tell you this, they are all there to play with your mind, to create inner chatter, they are there to put you off your game, to make it difficult for you to concentrate. These are the only things the course has to defend itself, to create an illusion for you to question your ability.

I will try to answer any questions you may have @ the Golf Fitness and Psychology forum at GTO. Even in today's fast-paced world of high technology, there are few steadfast rules about how the mind interfaces with body when playing golf. The more grassroots experience, desire, and initiative people have, the farther they will go.

I hope you will use the Psychology forum and all the other forums here at Golf-Tuition-Online to help in your own pursuit of excellence in this game of Golf.

Many Thanks
Ian Hancock.
Golf Fitness and Psychology Forum Moderator

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Once you learn the swing, your next step is mastering golf psychology................

Wow!

Great article Ian you know your stuff. I totally agree with what you have posted their. One thing with golf is.. each year you need to set your self some targets so that you have something to commit to and strive to reach.

I am quite the perfectionist and I like to get things right, when you are going through extreme swing advancements and you have 50 things running through your head, it is hard! But i think the best thing to do is to persevere and never give up, because, although the saying "practice makes perfect" is extremely over used... it is true!!

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Determination, Dedication & Commitment is what it takes to be the best!!

Nice article Ian!

I'm not sure enough emphasis is put on the mental aspects of the game and getting the body and mind to work together in synchronous harmony.

I am constantly trying to quiet the inner chatter and when I lose the ability to do so, my game suffers. I look forward to working on this aspect of the game.

S

Excellent article Ian.

i have just bought a copy of Bob Rotella's GOLF IS NOT A GAME OF PERFECT. I will post my thoughts and questions on this subject..

Best Wishes....Terry

Hi ian
have you by any chance read my thread trust ?
I would like hear your opinion on this.
regards terry

Two people I will always trust with my game... Rotella and Pelz

Both have pride of place on my bookshelf , JP.

If you get the chance , try to get hold of a copy of the little red golf book. by Harvey penwick.

That's now on my Amazon "wish list" pending payday!