The Mental Game

Golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Some professionals cite the mastery of golf's mental aspects as the primary weapon in their arsenal. There are three categories to the mental game namely method, judgement and psychology.

Method

A pre-shot routine to focus the mind on the current shot is extremely important. It helps to block out distractions, dwelling on past mistakes and dreams of glory. Visualise on where you want the ball to go and imagine its trajectory. Go through a mental checklist of grip, address, stance and posture and make your swing. If your pre-shot routine is interrupted then re-focus by starting from the beginning rather than continuing from where you left off.

After taking your shot, take a moment to study it especially if it was unusually good or bad. What did you do right ? What did you do wrong ? Is there anything to suggest that one of the elements of your swing require re-evaluation ? Practice and playing regularly are an important opportunities to learn not just an opportunity to enjoy the scenery.

Judgement

A faulty swing which causes the clubface to open or close by a few degrees which will cause the ball to deviate from the intended trajectory and be slightly short. This can be especially detrimental when driving from the tee because of the distances involved. In extreme cases, you may not even land on the fairway. Therefore tee off from a point in the tee box which is most likely to minimise the effects of this problem.

On the fairway, make a note of the ball's lie. If it is on a slope, buried or flat. Note the weather and course conditions. Do you need to compensate for wind? Is the ground hard causing the ball to bounce or roll? These may have a bearing on club selection and/or require a slight alteration to your set up.

Be aware of any hazards around the target area. Aim your shot such that any deviation from your intended trajectory also deviates the ball from the hazard. If you must hit over a hazard remember that most people hit short. You may consider over-clubbing especially if hitting long carries no penalty.

During competition, it is advisable to play cautiously. Focus on your own game and try to remain relaxed. This will help to maintain your consistency and to play well. You may not turn in your best ever score but unlike your competitors, won't have let the special circumstances interfere with your game. If you are playing well then ride the wave but don't push it. Remember your objective is to score lower than your competitors rather than establish the course record.

Above all focus on the current shot and address all elements of your pre-shot routine.

Psychology

Stress and harassment are your enemies on the golf course. Relaxation and a proper state of mind are your allies. Before venturing out onto the course, turn up at the clubhouse in good time. Move your mind away from external influences by conducting your warm up routine and making a few practice shots on the range and green. This makes you ready to play golf.

If you are playing in a competition, besides completing the obvious formalities, look over your equipment and ensure you have everything you need. You might also want to substitute some of your regular clubs for others depending on what you anticipate the conditions or course to be like.

If you find yourself playing against someone better than you then it is important not to be intimidated. Recognise the fact but don't dwell on it. Concentrate on your own game and think positively. Remember that anything can happen. If you play a good game and your competitor a bad one then you may be victorious. Your competitor may have a lower handicap but has he made all the required mental preparations that you may not have.

Finally remember to enjoy yourself. Golf after all should be fun !