Focusing or concentrating in the moment is a skill that you can develop as well as any golf professional.
Golf is called a mental game because you need to manage your thoughts and emotions to play well. Internal or external distractions keep golfers from playing at their peak performance levels.
The human mind processes thousands of bits of sensory information every second so it is no wonder that we have trouble focusing on one shot at a time. A lot of golfers believe they have to concentrate on the game for four or more hours. Actually it is a good thing to relax and joke with your golf partners between shots and focus only when it is your turn.
As you approach your ball, begin to change your outer focus of attention to inner focus to create the shot you are about to hit. Imagine that you are wearing blinders and can only see the execution of the upcoming shot. Focusing on seeing, feeling and preparing for your shot will replace your distracting thoughts.
Your pre-shot routine is the key for concentration
Your pre-shot routine is the map that gives direction to your brain about the shot you are going to hit. For your results to be consistent, your routine prior to swinging must be the same every time. Successful golfers train their minds to do the same routine in sequence over and over until it becomes a habit. On the golf course they can then activate the sequence by a trigger or swing key to start the process.
Analyze the wind, yardage, type of shot, target and club selection. Be totally committed to the club and shot you have selected. Narrow your focus further by standing behind the ball, connecting clearly with the target and visualizing the flight of the ball to the target. Finish narrowing your focus by feeling the swing, either by swinging the club or mentally imagining it in your mind. If you have practiced your swing using a swing-thought or swing-cue, activate it to initiate your swing.
Concentration is the art of allowing yourself to become interested. Allow yourself to become enraptured with what you are doing.
When you are watching an engrossing movie, your attention is focused on the action. In the same way, planning a golf shot can be just as engrossing. Focus your full attention along with your full intention on what you want to happen. Stay committed to your mental and physical routines. This will keep you calm, in control, and focused on hitting one shot at a time.
Play “in the zone” with Joan
Entrain Your Heart and Mind for Peak Performances
Available now is the new CD “Master Your Short Game for Lower Scores” for training your brain to use your senses for confidence to score low around the greens. You can order today at http://www.pmi4.com/cart
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