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Golf Tips for First Tee Jitters 2:
Second, know that first tee nerves are part of golf. Interpret them as a way of getting you focused for the first tee shot and giving you the shot of adrenaline you need. This is how the pros look at first tee nerves. Focusing too much on the uncomfortable feelings only heightens the tension. Don't bring more attention to the knot in your stomach or a rapid heart beat when you feel the unfriendly jitters. Shift your attention to your game plan and how you should play the first hole. You have several options to prepare yourself for the first tee shot. Use what works best for you: Visualize the shot you want to hit. Feel a smooth swing as you take a couple practice swings and visualize the ball flying to your target. This helps instill confidence and focuses you on execution instead of "what if I top my first tee ball?" Relax and talk with your playing partners. Take your mind off the first tee shot. Some players work themselves into a state of anxiety as they stand around and do nothing while waiting to hit their first shot. Keep your mind occupied with other thoughts. When it's your turn to hit, don't rush your routine. Take your time to go through the routine and visualize a good shot.
Reconfirm your goals for the day to help you focus on the process. Write down your goals on your scorecard or on something you can see. I've created cue cards for tour players I've worked with as reminder to focus on their goals for the day. They keep the goals in their yardage book and every time they open it, the cue card "focus on the process" is directly in sight as a reminder. If you are the person that gets too anxious to pull the trigger, try some simple relaxation exercises before it's your turn to hit. Take a few deep breaths through the abdominal region. As you inhale, shrug your shoulders to your ears. As you exhale, drop your shoulders and release the tension. Tighten and release your grip on the club to prevent the "death grip." You want to release the tension in your hands, arms, and shoulders before you address the ball. Above all else, take your time and don't hurry the first tee shot to "get it over with," which is a natural response to worry and anxiety. This will only make you swing faster. Remember to aim at a specific target in the fairway, rather than aim at the fairway. Pace yourself by walking up to the ball with the confidence that you can hit a solid shot. Make sure your mind and eyes are focused on the target, not the trees or hazard. Focus on the feeling of a smooth swing you ingrained with your practice swings. This
article was based on Dr. Cohn's Book, "Going Low: How to Break
Your Individual Scoring Barrier." Dr. Patrick J. Cohn is a master mental game coach who works with golfers of all levels including PGA and LPGA Tour players. Visit Peaksports.com to gain access to over 400 exclusive mental game articles, audio programs, and interviews with athletes and coaches to enhance your golf potential: or call 888-742-7225.
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