How often have you found the secret to reliability only to have the brand-new tactic completely disappear the very next time? The emotional rollercoaster in the game affects players of all skill levels, making no favors for any of them. The unpredictable nature of golf is among its most challenging features. The first step to consistency is how you handle this factor.
Observed the 2017 British Open?
Golf analysts started dissecting Jordan Spieth’s swing after his tee shot on the thirteenth hole went 100 yards off course. Poor shots are unavoidable whether you’re competing for beer or the Claret Jug; the greater the stakes, the more costly the error.
Jordan Spieth can teach us patience as our first lesson. After making a poor shot, stop criticizing yourself. Establish reasonable standards. Per round, give yourself permission to take ten bad shots.
Planning is the subject of the second lesson. If you’re prepared to put in four and a half hours to try to bury a ball in a hole, you can surely set aside twenty minutes to consider the difficulties that may arise. If your ball lands in deep rough, can you recover? If your ball accidentally lands behind a tree, how can you minimize the consequences? Instead of aiming for the hole and producing a smooth four-foot downhill putt, perhaps a twenty-foot uphill putt is a better strategy.
Placing is the third lesson. Jordan Spieth shot four-under par on the following holes after a remarkable bogey on the thirteenth hole. Thoughtful putters appear to be sinking every putt, so they might be lucky. Develop the habit of telling yourself that you are a fantastic putter. You’ll be astounded at how frequently the ball disappears into the cup’s bottom.
It would be reasonable to assume that perfecting proper technique is a priority for amateur golfers given the abundance of technical advice. The strongest mind cannot make up for a bad grip, so it is obvious that you need a firm grasp of the fundamentals of swing mechanics.
Consistent beliefs produce a consistent swing as a byproduct.
I have taught over 11,000 students, and I have found that the majority of weekly golfers hold the exact opposite opinion.
Jordan Spieth’s ability to play at a level above his technical proficiency is a result of his patience, planning, and putting skills. Adopt the three “P’s” into your game, and discover your natural ability that lies beyond swing mechanics.
Thanks for reading!