Frustration on the golf course could be the result of unrealistic expectations of your game. When you set high standards that aren’t readily attainable, you will constantly experience failure and frustration. It is important to acknowledge that you will mishit shots. Blaming yourself and feeling angry only increases the chances that you will make even more mistakes.
You will experience less frustration and be more relaxed if you do not demand perfection from yourself. Don’t make your missed golf shots the central theme of your thoughts. The more you replay the missed shots in your mind, the more you deplete your mental and physical energies to play good shots.
Most golfers are disappointed unless they hit a perfect shot. They will voice their analysis of why the shot wasn’t perfect. “I lifted my head,” “I hit it on the toe,” “I swung too fast,” etc. To maintain an even temperament, acknowledge the praise of your good (not perfect) shots with a sincere thank you. Smile within to anchor your success. This will keep you in a positive frame of mind with a sense of accomplishment.
Golfers see bunkers, rough, uneven lies and trees as problems. Change your fear thoughts to thinking that these are just different shots and an opportunity to be creative. Focus on the solution, not on the problem.
Options for lowering your frustration level:
- Choose to hit shots that you know you can pull off successfully. Failing to pull off the “miracle shot” can result in frustration.
- Be realistic about the distance you can hit your clubs and don’t expect to hit the maximum distance every time.
- Use your missed shots as an opportunity to focus on recovering well.
- Realize that you cannot change your missed shots, but you can change the thoughts that upset you.
- A round of golf is very seldom all good or all bad. Focus on the good shots that you have hit.
- Have the feeling that golf with all its ups and downs is a fun game to play!
Play “in the zone” with Joan
Entrain Your Heart & Mind for Peak Performances
If you would like to improve your mental golf game, call Joan for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. She can be reached by phone at 828.696.2547, or by email at pmi4@bellsouth.net. Strategies to improve your mental golf game are available on the PMI website, where you can purchase self-hypnosis golf CDs at www.pmi4.com/cart
Leave a Reply