How can I keep from getting distracted on the golf course?

Distractions such as noises on the golf course are common place. There is also the distraction of your inner voice that can bring up interfering negative thoughts.

If inner thoughts or outer noises distract you, you have not totally prepared your mind so your body will know what to do. Using a consistent pre-shot routine is a good way to focus your attention so you won’t notice distractions. Programming your mind for the shot you want is the only part of your golf swing over which you have total control. Indecision about your golf swing or the club to use will interfere with a clear process of creating the shot.

An excellent step to add to your pre-shot routine is the “D-Line”. From behind the ball as you look down the fairway at your target, draw an imaginary line between you and the golf ball. This is your Decision Line (D-Line). All thoughts and decisions must be made before you cross this line.

Plan your shot by taking into account the distance, wind and target. Be decisive about the club you have selected. Practice your swing mentally and/or physically. Picture in your mind the flight of the ball, or rolling the ball into the hole. When you have done this, you are ready to move to the ball and trust that your subconscious mind has received the information and will act on it. Any other thoughts you have over the ball will be a distraction.

If you are distracted at any time after crossing your D-Line, begin your pre-shot routine again to refocus your mind.

Keep a mental scorecard with a pass/fail system or a 1-10 system (with 10 being totally decisive) to record your level of preparedness for every shot. You might be surprised how many shots you hit without being mentally ready.

 Play “In the Zone” With Joan

Log on to the PMI website and Blog for additional mental golf tips.

If this article is helpful to you, and you want to learn more, call Joan for a complimentary 15-minute consultation about improving your mental game. She can be reached by phone at 828-696-2547, or through the Positive Mental Imagery website or blog.

Self-empowering self-hypnosis mental golf CDs are available at www.pmi4.com/cart