Karen Walker

So many of my students say they are "afraid" of hitting the ball incorrectly because if they do, their ball will land in the bunker, the water or out of bounds.

So I ask them: “What are you thinking about before you make that shot over the bunker or water?”
Most of them say they think about the bad result that will happen if they mishit the shot.

These "scary" thoughts can create tension in your body and a definite lack of confidence. Sometimes by having these thoughts you actually tell your brain to make these bad things just by focusing on the possibility that it will.

When you think in this negative way, the bad shots will usually end up in the scary place you thought about.

So why not change your way of thinking?

Next time you have to hit that shot over the hazard, plan out exactly where you are going to hit your ball. Tell yourself, "I will land this ball on the right side of the green and then let it roll down to the flagstick."

If you’re hitting over water, do NOT think about the water. Rather, focus on exactly where you are going to land the ball on the other side. Be specific and feed your brain positive thoughts about what a great shot you are going to hit!

You will be surprised how your body will listen and your shots will start improving.

So the next time you have fearful thoughts before a shot, take a step back, take dead aim, tell yourself exactly where your ball will land and visualize the positive results! You will see how positive thinking will help your golf game and your scores!

Staff instructor Karen Walker is an LPGA professional who teaches private and group classes and is also available for clubfitting. Read more about Karen. Call the pro shop to schedule a lesson: 760-720-GOLF.