Mentally prepared?

Question
Hi,

Good day. Thanks for your time in reading this. This might be long-winded but I don't know how to make it shorter.

I am an amateur golfer in my 20's.
I have been playing this game for over 12 years and I love the game! I have always been trying to save money so that I can get formal training from coaches and concentrate in playing competitively. Now, I think I am ready. For the past 1 month, I have concentrate more on training (physical, golf swing and short game) with a European PGA pro. I have spent more than 30 hours a week in training, though I am still working full-time.

Before I start training even with a lousy swing at that time, I am able to break 80's, thanks to my driving distance and iron play. Though I have worked hard now and physically more prepared to take on competition challenges, somehow I feel that I am still "not-there" yet. I am actually suppose to play in a Amateur closed championship next month , but now I am hesitating as I have no confidence in myself. I feel that I need more time and be better.

I think I am having a confidence issue as I have been having sleepless nights worrying about my performance in such event (my first). Although my swing is fundamentally better now, my short game way better than before, I am still thinking that I may not be able to perform. I have worked over 5 years since I graduated from university and have been saving my money just for this opportunity, how can I make myself more confident in my ability and not worrying about screwing it up. What should I do to be mentally prepared?

Thanks and with best regards,
MY Chooi


Answer
My Chooi,

"We have met the enemy, and they are us."

You are talking up a storm and your body is suffering because of it. Go to the website drsport.com and read the articles there.

You will need to set up a pre-shot routine and learn to develop strong focus. This will take time. You must learn to move toward the positive and enjoy the game, win or lose. Fear is not part of the game of golf. If it is you must learn to master the words that create it and use the energy for positive expectation and motivation.

Relax and just let yourself play each shot alone. The people who love you will still love you even if you miss the putt. Practice hard and they let yourself play the game.

You can not force the game, you can not overpower the course, you can be very good and then get out of the way and play the game. Take your mind away from golf between shots. Not to far but away enough to think of enjoyable things. Bring your mind back and focus on what is important to make the next shot. And nothing else.

You can do this.

Bob Phillips