Golf is one sport where being able to control you mental state and nerves is very crucial to taking home the big check and trophy.

Although not all nervousness is bad, having some keeps you focused and in control, keep your eye on the golf prize so to speak. A skill that’s key for golf is being about to use that energy to your advantage and see it as a benefit vs. an anchor. Similar to giving a speaking presentation to a crowd of people preparation is key. If you are not prepared then this will cause an increase in nerves. In golf it’s understanding all technical aspects of the game, swing, stroke, ball placement, club head speed, club selection golf ball selection etc… With more preparation knowledge and practice you will have less stress and nerves about the game. Plus you will have much better techniques which will give you better results thus boosting your confidence. When it comes to shot execution you need to trust your technique in order to get the desired result. You will notice out on the golf course when you have a good attitude and trust your shots you typically play better.

Some things to build confidence in your technique are activities like, taking golf lessons for a PGA golf pro, reading some magazines like golf digest, get your head straight mentally, stretch those muscles and go to the golf range more then you go to the golf course. As you repeat this cycle you will become more experienced and thus improve your game. If you make mistakes out on the golf course try to identify what those are and bring them to your instructor to work out. Make sure you don’t practice a bad habit over and over again. Lean from yourself out on the golf course, figure out what works for you, it won’t be the same for others.

Some mental activities to keep in mind while playing. Taking deep breaths will help relieve some anxiety. Also don’t try and be the scratch golfer right out of the gate, play shots you know that you can hit. Just because your golf buddy hits them 275 doesn’t mean you can. Swing easy and plan your shots. Take the time to find your target path and picture the shot before making it.