I’m As Nervous As A Cat!
Jack Nicklaus once said, “The difference between being nervous and scared is being prepared.” Rocco Mediate, 2008 U.S. Open overtime runner up to Tiger Woods, speaks his truth when describing his emotions and feelings when playing on perhaps the biggest stage in golf there is The U.S. Open stating on camera, “I’ll be as nervous as a cat.” We become what we think.
A couple days ago I was playing a round of golf with my friends and while getting ready to tee off on the 4th hole I told them ‘I’m as nervous as a cat’ through the first three holes…giving them The U.S. Open Rocco quote. Another friend said, “Me too and here I am playing with my buds.”
What is it that causes us to feel this nervous energy run throughout our bodies? I mean a little bit of excitement and eager anticipation is good for the soul. Too much anxiety creates unwanted tension in our mind and body. It’s nerves and it all starts with a thought – a vibration. Those who control, manage, or are able to be with their emotions will ultimately prevail. It was the great Harry Vardon who profoundly said, “There are only two types of player–those who keep their nerves under control and win championships and those who do not.”
By the 4th hole I was able to center and ground myself much better. Rocco talks about the same phenomenon. After we get going some we tend to settle in and get more comfortable. However, if we allow the event to become bigger than it really is in our mind, it will become that, despite the fact that it is not. It’s just a round of golf, a stroll in the park if you will, hitting a little white ball down the fairway and into a little round cup.
Really? I invite you to observe yourself when playing golf next. Really begin to notice and observe your thoughts, feelings, emotions, and any physical symptoms like a racing heart beat, shallow breathing, tension in the neck, or sweaty palms. Just notice. Can you be with that? Because what you look at disappears. Practice detachment from being all caught up in the experience.
Another technique that I like to use is The Mental Edge Golf Technique that focuses on releasing negative or stuck energy and replaces it with a new more positive focus and belief. First we acknowledge the situation, then we accept ourselves exactly was we are, forgive ourselves for feeling this way, and replace these negative aspects with positive ones, like: calm and confident, relaxed and focused, present and joyful…Let it be Easy! I’ll show you how to do it and after a few times you can do it on yourself. Same technique works in lowering your comfort zone as well.
What does it take to become a mentally tough golfer? Post your comments and feedback as we open up this can of worms and start spilling the beans.
Feeling stuck or confused, call me – no charge, no gimmicks.
Play Well and remember Golf Is Supposed To Be Fun,
Rand Marquardt
Author, Teacher, Mental Golf Performance Life Coach
www.golfissupposedtobefun.com
(231) 838 – life (5433)
Inspiring Excellence Within!
