November 8, 2024 11:45 am

There are many things I admire about the best golfers in the world. But their ability to leave the previous shot behind is the best of all. What is done…is done. It’s the mental game.

I bet you behave similarly to the way I do. When I hit a poor shot that has ruined the hole or I miss a putt from close range, I usually seethe as I play my next shot. This is stupid in the extreme. The mental state you are in for the next shot will seriously affect your ability to play a good one.

I then walk to the next tee after a bad hole and try to take vengeance on the poor defenseless golf ball with my driver. The golf ball gets the last laugh as it often leaves my ownership for good.

Controlling emotions

It is not just the professionals’ ability to bounce back after a bad hole with a birdie on the next one that amazes me. They can also do something brilliant on one hole and show lots of emotion. But by the time they tee off on the next hole, their heart rate, pulse and all other vital signs are back to normal. This is a very difficult art.

If you saw the Ryder Cup last year, how were those guys able to steady themselves for each shot after the heroic antics that they were routinely performing?

This is what they do. They breathe deeply again and again. They forget what has happened on the previous shot or hole and focus on the challenge of the next shot.

Deep Breaths. Focus.

This is not something that you will find easy to do. It won’t happen instantly. Like all things in this wonderful sport, it requires time and practice.

So, think about this the next time you play, whether it is after success or an abject failure. As you walk to the next tee, take deep breaths and concentrate on the shot you are about to take. Leave the past where it rightly is. In the past.

By Jon Woodroofe – Master Professional, World of Golf London

Categorised in: Tip of the month, World of Golf London