Does Your Self-Talk Serve You?

Most people operate on auto pilot. They don’t recognize how their thinking inhibits their performance on the golf course. They replay the same recording in their head with each round of golf and wonder why they get the same result. Dedicate 9 holes to simply observing your thoughts before, during, and after play. As you prepare to play, are you saying things to yourself that are supportive and encouraging? Are you excited for the challenges that a round of golf inevitably presents or do you fear embarrassing yourself? When you approach a shot, do you think “Hey everyone, watch this. Look what I can do!” Or, do you pray no one is watching and simply race to get the shot over with!

Thoughts pop up from within (fear, doubt) and from outside (expectations… the “should’s” in life). Thoughts generate feelings and feelings create a state of being that either supports or interferes with performance. The good news is you are the gatekeeper. In other words, you’re in charge! When a thought arises, KEEP IT OR KICK IT. Recognize you have the power to choose. Your best golf is played when your thoughts are anchored in the present moment. Fortunately, we have limited attentional capacity. So, when a thought arises that does not support your golf performance, simply redirect your attention to more constructive thinking…essentially creating no room for mental interference. If you are struggling with a lot of “kick it” thoughts, here are some helpful strategies:

Between golf shots, imagine you are a golf commentator describing conditions of play. For example, “Conditions today are ideal…sunny and warm with a light breeze out of the west. The first hole is a par 5 dog leg right. The leaves are just starting to pop, and the grass is greening up for the summer.” Essentially you observe and describe your surroundings in a positive or neutral fashion to anchor your attention in the present.
Focus on something you CAN do…even if it is something simple like an aspect of your routine. “I can breathe. I can stand tall. I can smile.”
List off things you are grateful for… “I can spend time with friends on a beautiful golf course. My health allows me to play golf.” Regularly taking stock of the simple things in life will keep you from going down a path of “I’ll be happy when…” Choose to be grateful and happy today.

It may sound simple but keep it or kick it requires attention and discipline. When you notice thoughts that do not serve you, gently redirect your attention. The process of observing and redirecting will strengthen your “focus muscles.”