There is a famous saying in golf that “golf is a game which is played in the space between the ears”. Yes, that’s absolutely true, golf is more of a mental game than a physical sport. It’s your mindset at the golf course which dictates your game more than your finesse in technical aspect to the game. In fact, the greatest of all time Jack Nicklaus believes that “the problem is in your head, you got to believe.” Instead many amateurs emphasize on swing techniques and equipment to save strokes at the golf course but mind can be your best equipment if it used wisely. That’s the reason why many professional golfers rely upon mental coach or sports psychologist to enhance their performance. Professionals include metal training as a part of their preparation along with physical training. Mental fitness is the department which is often neglected by amateurs. Even if one is competing in club tournaments mental preparation can give an edge over others.

Irrespective of any level you compete in golf mental game is incredibly important.

Below are shared a few techniques to help you master the mental aspect of the game:

1. Have a clear plan: The best way to stay mentally strong while playing a tournament is having a clear plan and sticking to it. A plan gives you a clarity of actions. If your mind is aware of what’s need to be done in a given situation it would result in positive action. And also remember if things do not go as per the plan, always keep a backup plan to handle a tough situation. So, a plan helps in keeping your mind well prepared in advance for various situations.
2. Positive imagination: It’s very common in many amateurs that don’t understand the importance of positive imagination in golf. Positive imagination can be anything like imagining that you have made two successive birdies after two consecutive bogeys or hitting regulations on a Par 3 holes. It’s not necessary that what you imagine would come out absolutely true but it helps you in keeping yourself in a positive frame of mind which can lead to some better outcomes and bringing your game back on track.
3. Self-talk: Self talk is very aspect of mental training. Develop a habit of self-talk. Listen to yourself. You will definitely get to know what are your thoughts telling you. A pattern of thoughts always hit your mind in an odd situation. Once you become aware of any negative language patterns, then you can create a plan to replace them with empowering statements.
4. Body Language: Your body language has a direct impact on your mind. So whatever signal your body will give to your mind, your mind will react accordingly. So, make sure mind receives positive signals to help your game.

Body language means how your body reacts to a given situation. If your body responds to stressful situations in a powerful way it is more likely to bring optimistic attitude and better focus during the round.

5. Trust in Pre-shot routine: Pre-shot routine is that one aspect of mental fitness which you will notice in all the top golfers in the world. A Pre-shot routine helps in keeping your mind away from excessive thoughts before every shot. If you perform a consistent Pre-shot routine before every shot, it’s means you’re keeping your mind engaged in a process rather than worrying about result. In a pressure situation a Pre-shot routine helps in dealing with nervousness.
6. Never focus constantly:

Most of the amateurs commit a biggest mistake during a round that they try to focus on game at a stretch for 18 holes. You need to understand that you’re playing a sport which you’re supposed to enjoy. Your mind can’t focus constantly for 4-5 hours. This is the reason many players feel mental fatigue, which leads to poor concentration and ultimately reflects in their performance.

Instead you should learn when to focus and when to relax during the round. It’s just like switching on and switching off your mind when it’s needed. This exercise will allow your mind to stay refreshed and relaxed before every shot and helps you in concentrating on your game better.