Golf Mentality – 7 Tips to Master Your Mind

Without doubt the hardest thing to master in golf is your mind. I still struggle massively with overcoming my emotions when it comes to playing golf.

In this article, we will cover the essentials for building a strong golf mentality, so that you won’t want to quit so easily.

1. Be Patient

Remember that no matter what your skill level is, golf is a game of constant learning. Even the top golfers are still learning about ways to improve their swing.

When you hit a rubbish shot, think about the fact that this is a chance to improve your swing. You can learn more from a failed shot than a perfect shot.

Also remember to remind yourself that perfection takes time, and it won’t come after 2 rounds of golf. Progress will come if you stick to playing golf consistently.

2. Establish a Pre-Shot Routine

I was taught by my coach that one of the best ways to get your head in the game for the next shot is to have a specific routine before each shot.

This can include whatever you want. The idea is that you do it each time to subconsciously make you feel reach.

Personally, I always line up and take 3 practice shots slightly below my ball before quickly stepping up to the ball and replicating the practice shot.

You could do some of the following:

• Adjust your glove.
• Throw your ball in the air and catch it.
• Do a slow motion practice shot.
• Have a drink

3. Utilise the Driving Range

The driving range is extremely effective as it can hone your skills and build confidence in your abilities.

Go to the driving range to try out some new techniques and tricks and stay there for no longer than an hour – I explained why in my article on good driving range etiquette.

Once you have spent an hour practising, or you are happy with your swing, you can take this confidence into your next round on the course.

The feeling of perfecting your swing on the range can translate into improved confidence on the course.

4. Focus on the Process

Often we get so wound up by the numbers that we forget to look at how far we have come in terms of our swing. Focus on the process.

Shift your focus away from the scores and yardage. Instead, focus on perfecting your swing and getting a clean strike on the ball, with a good direction.

In my experience, once I made this my priority, I didn’t get as frustrated when my shot didn’t go as far. Instead, I was happy with the fact that I had gotten a really nice direction on my swing, but I had just lost out on some power.

By doing this, you will naturally get better results.

5. Stay in the Present Moment

Golfers often get extremely wound up by past events.

Coming from my own experience, I would always advise that you never think about your past shots, and just focus on the hole that you are playing.

When you spend the whole time annoyed about the shot that you just shanked, you start to lose your confidence, and your other shots will suffer. This creates a loop of negative self-talk.

Instead of dwelling on past mistakes, focus on your current shot; visualise where it will go before you execute your swing. 

6. Stay Confident

The only person who matters in golf is you. It may sound cliche when people say that you are only competing with yourself, but this is especially applicable to golf.

Never be embarrassed by a bad shot, just focus on how to improve it. Similarly, don’t compare yourself to those around you as everyone has different strengths and weaknesses.

When you play on the course, believe in your abilities and remind yourself of your past successes.

7. Enjoy the Game

Above all, golf is a recreational sport, and a great social opportunity. When you play golf, play it for the enjoyment primarily. This is the base of a great golf mentality.

As long as you enjoy playing the game, with the people that you want, the bad moments won’t matter as much.

Summary

Overall, golf mentality is one of the hardest aspects in this sport. By implementing some of these tips, you can enhance it.

Remember that you must give yourself time – no one becomes great immediately.