Golf is a mental game. Distractions are an integral part of Golf. When a golfer stands on the tee box and looks at the hole, more than likely the golfer is thinking about the hazards (sand bunkers, water, rough, and trees). Any time a golfer is distracted, the chance of a successful shot is virtually zero. A distracted golfer is not in the zone. A distracted golfer is not being in the moment.
From the myriad of distractions in the game of golf, I am going to discuss what I think are the top four distractions in golf. Two of the distractions is associated with the golf ball. Two of the distractions are associated with our upbringing.
Golf Ball Distractions
Why is it that a golfer’s real swing is so different from a golfer’s real swing? I see this all the time on the golf course and the driving range. The reason is the golf ball is a big distraction. Golf is the only game that we play with a ball where the objective is not to hit the ball. George Knudsen, one of the greatest ball strikers, said that “golf is a stationary ball game in which we make a motion towards a target. The ball simply gets in the way of the motion”. This concept is easy to say, very hard to do. Why? Because any time a golfer sees the ball the natural tendency is to either hit the ball or lift the ball up in the air. These two tendencies, help the ball and hit the ball, are two of the top four distractions.
“Keep your eye on the ball” is the worst thing a golfer can do because the golfer will be distracted to either try to help the ball into the air or try to hit the ball.
Distractions from Our Upbringing
What we have learned in order to be a successful adult does not work in golf. From the time we enter school, we are taught to “try harder”. When you want to get the best grade on a test, you did the extra credit problems. “Trying harder” and “do a little extra” is very natural for us adults. We do this automatically. Unfortunately, trying harder in golf never works. When you do the extra credit problems, you get a higher grade. In golf, when you do a little extra, you get a failing grade. Trying harder and doing a little extra are the two distractions that are learned from our upbringing.
These four distractions are very powerful and prevent golfers from executing proper golf swings. This is why a consistent pre-shot routine is so important. Focusing on your pre-shot routine will focus your mind so you can block distractions. If you do not consciously put something in your mind you will be distracted.
Focus on your pre-shot routine. Focus on your rhythm. Focus on a balanced swing. Focus on an efficient swing. This is the best way to minimize the top four distractions.