At first, you may roll your eyes at the idea of repeating golf mantras to yourself as a practical way of improving your technique. But did you know that many of the world’s best golfers will admit to using them as a way to stay focused and motivated in both practices and in tournaments? A mantra is a verbal or mental affirmation that allows the mind to concentrate and commit to the execution of an idea and this technique may be just what you need to elevate your mental attitude and play better.
If you don’t know where to find a golf mantra to try for yourself, look no further! Here are 10 examples you can write down and remember for the next time you take to the course. Pay attention to those that stick, and use them for weeks at a time to gauge their effectiveness.
1. “What other people think of me is none of my business.”
If you find yourself focusing more on what those around you are saying or thinking about your skill level, this one is for you. It really doesn’t matter what others think of you, what matters is what you think of yourself. Remind yourself of that and the opinions of others will have less and less power over you, allowing you to focus on the game like you never have before.
2. “I am a focused player.”
Depending on your situation there may be a lot of people on the course, noises coming from all over the place, hot or cold weather, or a number of other things that easily distract you from the game. Telling yourself that you are focused will keep you from getting side-tracked when you need to be paying attention on what’s going on in front of you.
3. “I have a steady swing.”
If you want to play better, take the part of your technique that is lacking and tell yourself you can do it. If you’re having trouble with your swing, for example, tell yourself that you have a steady swing as you go through the motions and pay attention to how it affects your technique.
4. “I thrive under pressure.”
This mantra is especially useful to someone who feels an overwhelming amount of energy during a game. Repeating “I thrive under pressure” will start to turn those intense emotions that feel like a burden into more of an asset.
5. “I am a confident golfer.”
Sometimes, we have to teach ourselves to believe in ourselves. If this sounds like you before you even touch the field you need to eat, sleep, and breathe this mantra. Go to sleep, “I am a confident player”. Wake up, “I am a confident player”. Get to the field, “I am a confident player”. Repeat!
6. “Winning is easy.”
When we’re really feeling the pressure it can affect our game negatively. By telling yourself that winning is easy, you remove some of that pressure and allow more space to enjoy playing the game.
7. “I am relaxed.”
Any golfer knows that tension is going to drastically affect your game and not in a good way. Tell yourself that you are relaxed to release the tension being stored in your muscles and watch as your swing and putting technique change for the better.
8. “I’m gaining experience.”
When you lose a game or have a rough day practicing, tell yourself that you are gaining experience. This allows you to focus on the fact that you are learning, and even though you might be having a rough day, you are still gaining valuable insight and perfecting your craft. Forgive yourself for your “off days”, everyone has them!
9. “My posture is perfect.”
Perfect posture, flawless swing. Don’t forget the vital role that good posture plays in your game, especially if it’s one of the things you need to improve upon.
10. “Golf is my life.”
Only repeat this one if it is the truth. Chances are that if you care enough to read this, golf is your life. This affirmation is powerful. It will grow your dedication to the sport and increase your willingness to persevere through the days you want to give up.
Give these golf mantras a shot and reap the benefits!