There are a lot of bullies on the golf course. Bunkers, water hazards, tall trees, high grass—you name it. The more you focus on those bullies, the more they mess with your head, and the worse you play. So how do you ignore them? I have a method that has helped everyone from tour players to 25-handicappers. I want you to use the power of intention.
What I mean by that is, before each shot go through your normal checklist, determining distance, wind direction, elevation change—all the usual variables. Then focus on what you want the ball to do and where you want it to end up. But here's the most important part: Once you've done that, try to hit the shot with as much bravery as you can muster. If you do that, your intention will divert from all the bad stuff out there and be channeled toward the execution.
In short, make a plan for the shot, stick to it, and accept the consequences. Don't let yourself be a slave to the result. Whatever happens, just start the process over again with the next shot.
Sean Foley is based at Orange County National near Orlando.
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