The Mental Game

Often times when we play well we are not thinking too much, we are doing! Why is that? Dr. Joseph Parent believes it is because we are allowing our mind and body to work together and we are not blocking our natural ability to do what we want. Think of it this way...we have 3 different modes of thinking or "minds." The first mind is the "thinking mind." This mind sorts through concepts and words, analyzes and calculates and makes decisions. In golf the thinking mind analyzes information about distance, lie, wind, humidity and past experiences. The intuitive mind, on the other hand, is the basis of habits. It is oftern referred to as "muscle memory." In order to get out of the way of yourself, you need to let your intuitive mind make the swing!

The Swing

The Programming Swing: If you are trying to concentrate on a swing thought and feel you are thinking too much, you probably are. Try the "Programming Swing," by Dr. Joseph Parent. "Having planned your shot and selected your club, stand behind the ball near the spot where you'll start your swing routine. Produce the specific movement you want to make. You don't have to make a full swing or swing at full speed. It's more effective to move in a way that allows you to be aware of your body and your club. It may be helpful to close your eyes while doing this, to give your intuitive mind a feel for what you want your body to do." Once you do this a few times, you can "feel" the swing rather than think the swing. This is how you will strike the ball better.

"Do not will the swing into being, use your will to find the swing that is already there, that was there before you were born, and will continue to exist through eternity. Surrender your will to your true authentic swing." Steven Pressfield

"You cannot correct a mistake, because the swing that you want to correct has already occurred. Nothing you can do will change it. Too many times we try to make these changes and further the problems we are having. That is why you need to expect excellence with each shot you attempt." Tim Gallwey

"You can buy a country but you can't buy a golf swing." Arnold Palmer

Competition

"Applaud the brilliance of your adversary. Those new to the game often cheer an opponents misfortune, but the player of wisdom who has entered into the soul of the game schools himself to feel and act the opposite. This is the greatness of the game." Steven Pressfield

"In other sports the opponent is regarded as the enemy. The golfer on the other hand is never directly affected by his opponent's actions. He comes to realize that the game is not against the foe, but against himself. This is the self we must defeat." Steven Pressfield

Practice

"The more I practice, the luckier I get." Gary Player

"Practice puts.....brains in your muscles." Sam Snead