Golf experts frequently say that golf is a mental game. While you may agree, perhaps you don’t believe that improving your mindset could really make a difference. If this is true, you’re in good company. A lot of amateur golfers will never learn how to unlock their best game simply because they’ve bought into some common misconceptions. To help you make an informed decision here is the truth behind the 10 big mental game training myths.
Myth #1 – Mental game training is only for really serious golfers.
The best golfers in the world do make mental game training a high priority and so should you. Why? Because if you want to play better that makes you serious about your game no matter what level you play.
Mental game training has a direct impact on golf performance because your mind directs your action. There is nothing you can do without your mind leading the charge. If your mindset isn’t under your direct control neither is your swing. Regardless of how often you play or your handicap, the quality of your mental game will determine the quality of your game.
Myth #2 – High or inconsistent scores are due to problems my technical game, not my mental game.
Your swing mechanics will never be perfect. Even professional golfers don’t make perfect swings. If you can hit good shots from time to time on the range and even on the course you’ve got good mechanics. But an inconsistent mindset will produce an inconsistent swing.
When you develop a solid mental game you can get the best out of the swing you have in the bag even with its imperfections. You’re likely giving the most shots away during your rounds by letting your head get in the way which will hurt your swing.
Myth #3 – If I need help with my mental game then others will see me as mentally weak.
If you’re someone who worries about what others think then you will never reach your full potential in golf. You’ve got to play for no one other than yourself and your opinion must be the only one that matters.
Smart and successful golfers don’t let anyone or anything prevent them from doing whatever it takes to play great. Learning how to discipline and focus your mind makes you so much stronger than those who let their insecurities hold them back. Decide which is more important to you — the opinions of others or doing what it takes to improve your game.
Myth #4 – I should be able to figure this out on my own.
A lot of what I teach golfers seems like common sense. But it’s not always easy to apply it under pressure if you haven’t learned how. Trying to figure out how to play with a more disciplined mind on your own is possible, but may take a lot of trial and error. Working with an expert can definitely expedite your learning.
Over the past decade I’ve taught golfers a proven mental game framework to help them develop the self-awareness and self-management skills to tap into their best game. Why wouldn’t you work with someone who can help you discover the fast tack to success in your game?
Myth #5 – I can get a quick fix if I just do a little mental game training.
My clients definitely achieve short-term gains the moment they begin working on their mental game. But just like developing consistent swing technique, developing a consistent mental game takes ongoing time and attention if you desire sustainable results.
Think of your mind as a muscle. If you don’t train it then it won’t be a reliable asset. To be effective, mental game training must be a part of your overall approach to golf. Whenever you are working on your technique, your fitness, or your strategy you should also be considering the role your mind is playing in the process.
Myth #6 – Mental game training is like therapy where I’ll be lying on a couch talking about my feelings.
This one makes me chuckle because I can’t even imagine working with a golfer like that. Mental game training is not therapy, it’s performance training. I help golfers move from where they are to where they want to go by teaching them to improve their thought habits.
This is practical training. Whether I’m working with you virtually or on the course, you’ve got to take action to apply the step-by-step strategies you’re learning. While there may be some reflective work you do on occasion at home, mental game training takes place every time you have a club in your hands.
Myth #7 – With my handicap, mental game training won’t make that much of a difference.
My clients with higher handicaps are those who make the greatest strides in their game. A small change to their mindset can have a big impact on their scoring average. The lower your handicap, the smaller your margin for error. Therefore, lower handicap golfers must learn to play with even higher levels of discipline to move the performance needle in their game.
The only question is whether or not you want to improve your game. If your answer is “YES!,” then mental game training can make a significant difference no matter what level you play.
Myth #8 – Mental game training is going to be too hard.
Mental game training is not rocket science. As I covered above, a lot of it is common sense backed up by step-by-step processes to make it easy to apply. The hardest part for every golfer is to consistently apply the processes they’ve learned.
Old habits die hard. And sometimes it seems easier to fall back into old habits when the game tests you. But that’s exactly when you start giving strokes away. No round will be flaw free. But the more committed you are to repeating your mental game strategies no matter how you are playing, the better you will ultimately score.
Myth #9 – I’m too busy and mental game training will take too much time.
You may be thinking that mental game training will require a lot of off course work. The truth is that most of where you work on the mental side of your game is on the range and course. So whenever you’re spending time on your game you can be working on your golf mindset.
The amount of learning time you want to spend off the course is entirely up to you. Time permitting, there’s always more you can dive into to advance your skills. But where the bulk of your work takes place is when you are already carving out time for golf.
Myth #10 – Mental game training is too expensive for my budget.
Don’t let your wallet prevent you from investing in an area of your game that can lead to decades of great play. I provide high quality training to fit anyone’s budget.
If money is not a concern and you learn best one-on-one then private coaching might be the best fit for you. If you have a friend or spouse you’d like to learn alongside then a semi-private option can lower the training cost per person and provide you with an accountability partner along the way.
If you are on a tight budget but still want some hand’s on help from me then my online training program is the perfect fit for you. You get all the great content that my private clients receive, plus lots of one-to-one access to me through my live group coaching support to make sure you stay on track. CLICK HERE for information about my online course.
To discuss all your options, simply text or call me at 847-302-2211 today. I’d be happy to provide you with more details and help you make the best decision to advance your game.
Stop Letting Myths (or Excuses) Get in the Way of Your Success
For a multitude of reasons there are golfers who will neglect developing their mindset and never reach their full potential. That makes me sad because I know how much mental game training has made a difference for my wonderful clients.
As another year comes to a close why not commit to making the coming year your best one yet.
Start by exploring your options with me during a complimentary consultation call. If you’ve got a desire to play better then I would love to speak with you. It won’t hurt to see what’s possible.
If you have other questions or concerns about the value of mental game training for you, please leave me a comment below. I look forward to hearing from you.
one common defect is the yips–happens to different people in different ways–some with putting, some chipping, some with the full swing. Tools commonly suggested include–relax, picture your successful outcome before you swing, ……
what do you suggest?
Edwin, Thank you for your question! The yips in any part of a golfer’s game stem from his or her thoughts manifesting in the swing action. In my experience with golfers, we start by identifying the thought habits that are driving the tension in the swing. A good mental pre-shot routine will occupy the mind consistently with the right things, limiting the presence of rogue thoughts that can open the door to fear of failure, self-doubt, etc. So the place to start is at the source rather than merely trying to put a bandaid on a symptom.