To produce more consistent shots, practice making your mental preparation more consistent. One of the most important mental tools is your pre-shot routine. Would you want to fly with a pilot who didn’t check out all of his instruments before he started the plane down the runway? Of course, not. In the same way it is important that you have a pre-flight checklist to prepare your mind to give the proper instruction for your golf swing. The pre-shot checklist prepares you to let go of conscious thoughts so you can to put your swing into a smooth automatic flight pattern.
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 the same, 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.
It is likely you prepare for your shots differently on the range and on the golf course, but expect the same results. On the wide-open range, most golfers are not concerned with the mental discipline that is required for scoring. Then on the golf course, the score becomes the focus and the wonderful tempo and relaxed swing is left on the range.
Practice the way you play. Train your brain by using your pre-shot routine with at least 60% of your shots on the range until it becomes a habit. Write down your routine and take it to the range so you can execute it the same way with every shot. If your practice routine and your on-course play routine are the same, your results will be similar.
Play “In the Zone” With Joan
If this article is helpful to you, and you want to learn more about developing a strong mental 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
Self-empowering mental golf CDs are available on the Positive Mental Imagery website.
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