A MESSAGE FROM LEO

I’ve talked about the 2,800 seconds you have during each game to score 70 or better. That 40 seconds you have per stroke is all you should need to get the lie of the ball, to balance your body (relative to the uneven lie), to determine the right ball flight, and to estimate the distance you need to carry the ball to wherever your target is. But don’t let those steps get in the way during your game.

If you practice and develop a solid foundational swing based on a grip, posture and alignment that fits the golf club of choice, then just rely on your routine to take over. If you have trained yourself to appreciate the journey you’re on, then it’s time to trust your instincts and play the golf shot you have chosen; the one you see as you walk into your setup position. That’s called “acceptance of the shot at hand.”

What happens after you make that swing you have created? Accept the results. If you’re successful, handle the personal praise for 10 seconds only, while you proceed to the next shot. If it didn’t go well, use those 10 seconds to deal with your disappointment, afterward refocus and prepare for the next shot. Each golf shot you have chosen to play was perfectly designed to be successful in your mind.

Trust yourself and start your swing!