Modeling is the basis of Neuro Linguistic Programming. NLP is the study of the internal maps in successful people’s brains, and then modeling their patterns of successful behaviors.
Children are the most accelerated learners. For children everything is new. They don’t have to compare their new learning experiences with old experiences (maps). Children learn unconsciously by trial and error without judgment. This is evident in the way they learn to operate cell phones, computers, and video games.
What is your knowledge base that keeps you from playing successfully?
Golf like everything else responds to your attitudes, beliefs, words and your energy. Old, outdated beliefs create conflict and indecision. When you shift your limiting beliefs to positive empowering ones, it will be reflected in your physical game.
Energy follows thoughts
In its most successful realm, golf is a mystical experience. When you are playing “in the zone” you are experiencing a profound state of one-pointed focus of concentration, fearlessness, creativity, euphoria and peacefulness. There is no need to think and analyze.
Model your behavior on success. Connect your mind and body.
- Manage your emotions. Release a missed shot or putt by taking a deep breath and smiling. This will release endorphins to calm your mind so you can refocus for the next shot.
- Manage your physical body. Stand tall, shoulders back, eyes straight ahead. Think of Rory McElroy striding quickly forward with anticipation of hitting his next shot.
Train your swing tempo
Imagine how you can access the perfect rhythm of your swing. For most golfers their swings tend to get faster during a round. This happens through increased confidence, or the opposite, forcing due to a lack of confidence.
Mentally practice taking the club back slowly and smoothly, making sure you finish the backswing before starting back down. There is a momentary pause at the top to accommodate the change of direction. Let the speed build gradually. If you finish out of balance, your swing tempo is out of balance.
Play “in the Zone” with Joan
Entrain Your Heart & Mind for Peak Performances
To train your mind-body connection for playing your best golf, listen to the Positive Mental Imagery guided imagery CDs, available at www.pmi4.com/cart
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