Learn From What Tour Professionals Say After a Round

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LPGA Golf Pro Natalie Gulbis

LPGA Golf Pro Natalie Gulbis

You may recognize a few of the statements below that are regularly issued by tour professionals at the conclusion of their round. Can you learn something from these standard remarks by the world’s best players? Can you apply any lessons to your individual game by giving heed to what these comments are teaching? The answer to these questions is of course you can! I believe that if you utilize a few basic principles found in these statements, you will soon begin to notice a positive difference on your scorecard. Let’s examine them more closely.

“I was able to stay in the moment.”

Distractions are everywhere. Yes, even on the golf course, they can be found in abundance. Avoiding their traps is key to your personal progress. If you are thinking about a job related issue, the yard work that you need to do instead of golfing, or whether you have time to pick up your brother-in-law at the airport then I would suggest that you will struggle with your concentration. This type of distraction, though nearly impossible to completely eliminate, nevertheless needs to stay away from the course. It becomes a ton of bricks in your golf bag, an unnecessary burden. During the course of play, it would behoove you to concern yourself only with those things pertaining to your group. Why worry about what is going on ahead of you or behind you or in an adjacent fairway? Unless you own your own course, there are always going to be other people out there. I know that you have it within you to be totally focused on the immediate task at hand.

“I took it one shot at a time and did not think ahead.”

In some ways this relates to the previous comment. Let’s consider the following scenario. You are having the best round of your life. You get overly excited in anticipation of an “easy” hole to come. That which you were counting on aiding your life time achievement just became a living nightmare. So, you can get distracted when you become a scoreboard watcher. You have heard it said before that a two foot putt counts just as many strokes as a 250 yard shot. There is great pleasure to be derived from executing every type of shot required during your round. Fixation with that bad swing you made on the last hole can be the worst kind of mental distraction. Forgive and forget! “Move along. Nothing to see here!” Remember, the next shot could very well be the greatest shot of your life. But it will not occur if you are thinking about your current total number of strokes in relation to par. Commit to each shot and live in the now. You must not think too much about what lies ahead rather focus on where your ball lies. The next hole will still be waiting to test your skills. It is not going anywhere. Patrick Reed, as the third round leader at Congressional Golf Club, said the following: “You can’t get ahead of yourself. If you think about having the lead or if you think about what you’re going to do coming down 18, you’re going to lose focus on the rest of the holes.”

“I came in with a clearly defined game plan and I stuck to it.”

If you are prepared, you should not fear anything. Deciding beforehand what you will do in any situation you could potentially face is essential. Through repetitions in practice and developing self discipline, you will greatly increase your ability to be able to once again make a correct decision at the course. I can not overstate this point. Many, if not all of these choices, have essentially been predetermined by you. Course management has as much to do with keeping your emotions in check as it does checking the yardage and pulling a correct club. You can make a choice to ignore the jeers from the “noisy gallery, which might just include your golfing buddies. They will tempt you to alter your actions. With the proper training, no one will be able to force you to deviate from your chosen plan. I suggest that you listen to your “inner caddie”. You have learned from your experience that he will not lead you astray. He will confirm to you the correctness of your decisions time and time again. Regardless of the particular situation, you can always stick to your pre-shot routine. This will prove to be very beneficial even if nothing seems to be going the way you intended. As you know, things can change quickly on the golf course. So, slow down and stay true to what you know. “First doubt your doubts, before you doubt your faith.” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf

“I played to my strengths and tried not to do anything crazy.”

You have a “go to” shot, use it more frequently. If your relationship with your driver is on-again-off-again, then here is some good advice. Don’t hesitate to utilize your fairway metals off the tee or anything else for that matter. Your strength is in keeping the ball in play with something other than the big stick. So, give your driver a leave of absence and do not concern yourself with the distance your playing companions are hitting the ball. Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of a stress free round. You don’t have to search for your tee ball when it is sitting comfortably in the middle of the fairway. Happiness is always finding your ball. You know exactly what results from not losing one brand new Titleist, Nike, Callaway, or Bridgestone for 9 or 18 holes. You will have a lower score! Perhaps you feel that you don’t have a strength to your game at this point. You will find a strength through your preparations. Weaknesses, well, we all have them despite our best efforts to hide them. In golf, as in life, they are intended to humble us. Only then are we in a state where we a ready and willing to be taught. Don’t be afraid to admit you need help. You can’t figure everything out on your own and were never meant to. Seeking to make progress is a noble undertaking. I’ll give you just one example of doing something crazy. I have seen this so many times. You are attempting, in vain, to hit a fairway club from the thick rough. Despite your delusions of grandeur, this strategy will not prevail. You need a machete, my friend! Go to your bag and pull out a shorter, much more lofted club. You will not regret this move as you shall extricate the ball from the deep stuff and be in good position for your next play.

“My goal was to avoid big numbers.”

Yes, snowmen do enjoy making special appearances during golf season. Recording a double-bogey or worse does not mean the end of your day. However, it is important to right the ship soon before the “snowball” effect takes control of your game. If you cannot refocus, you may end up needing the services of your accountant to review your scorecard. Each hole gives you the opportunity to begin anew and essentially restart your round. It is never too late to do something great! I suggest spending a little more time working on your short game. The ability to scramble due to confidence in your wedge play and putting can be your saving grace. In truth, all it really takes is one good shot on virtually any golf hole to give yourself an opportunity to make bogey or better. You can do that!

“I just went out there today and decided to have fun and not think about anything.”

After all is said and done, if you cannot just go out and enjoy yourself, perhaps you need to reassess your attitude or your overall approach. Remember why you love this game. It isn’t because you get paid to play it, right! There is more to it than simply the final tally on the card. It is hard to beat golfing on a beautiful day with friends or family at a picturesque golf course. If you desire to improve, do not procrastinate developing some type of consistent off-course practice routine. Practice, in whatever form it takes, is your dress rehearsal. The golf course is your stage and the performance must go on. So, it goes without saying, then, that there is clearly danger is delay. The danger is that you will discover that you have run out of time. You have rushed to get yourself to the first tee only to discover that you do not have a game plan, you are already distracted by a dozen things, you are lacking in confidence, you are nervous because you have no idea where your tee shot is going to end up, and you are resigned to accept a big number before you’ve hit your first shot. With this warning sound of procrastination, I bring you this good news. There is even now still time for you to prepare yourself for your next trip to your favorite golf destination. You don’t have to remain the comic relief for your foursome. By sincerely pondering these remarks from very accomplished golfers, and by taking action today your golf life will change for the better.

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Don’t Compare Your Beginning to Someone Else’s Middle

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Are you constantly comparing yourself to other people? “Oh, how I wish that I looked like that person!” As I ponder the hundreds of times that I’ve listened to such expression of one’s displeasure with their body, I wish to offer some insight – no one is completely happy with their current physical state!

Perhaps you have never considered that the same individual who you are staring at, subtly of course, is actually having the same wishful thought about someone else. And, yes, that person has his or her eyes on yet another who is deemed to have an absolutely perfect physique. Do you see how this could be never ending? In the quest for perfection, all of us will be left seeking for more, and all of us will fall short in this life. Reality teaches us that no one is immune from illness, injury, or simply the ebb and flow of life events. Circumstances beyond our control can put a temporary damper on the attainment of any personal physical fitness goals.

You might perhaps feel as if you are spinning your wheels in the mud and progress seems unlikely to occur any time soon. What are you to do if you face such a set-back? Since there exists no inoculation to shield you from trials, you must simply accept them and carry on.

As my intention is to be encouraging, I must tell you that you can rise to meet you own personal challenges. Remember, be strong, you never know who YOU might inspire through your efforts, because as we have already established, people are watching, wishing, and waiting. Even you, who currently may not be exactly thrilled with yourself, may be just the person someone else needs.

In the gym, as in life, let us not be so quick to judge others. We assume too much as we peer across the health club at our idol. Do not make the mistake in presuming that everything comes easy to this particular person. We are not aware of his or her own struggles. Nothing lasting and worthwhile comes without a price to be paid. Are you willing to offer a small portion of that cost each day to improve? “You have not failed unless you quit trying.” -Gordon B. Hinkley

Merely gazing at someone’s large biceps or nicely sculpted legs or shoulders is not going to instantly transform your own body parts. Can anything good come from your wandering eyes and dare I call it “body envy”? By seeking to find a fitness role model, you can attempt to emulate some of the healthy habits which are put into practice. You might acquire that little extra motivation or even precious knowledge from the one whom you admire at the gym.

However, here is where I caution you to be careful. Please read the following warning label:

1.) Some of the people who look as if they should know what they are doing, actually do not. Indeed, improper form too often accompanies the exercise practices of those who appear to fit the ideal role model.

2.) There is no perfect approach that will work for everyone. So, mimicking every move another makes is not necessarily a recipe for your personal success. “If you are still looking for that one person who will change your life, take a look in the mirror”.- Roman Price

I stand ready and willing to help, but ultimately you are in control of your destiny. We are all at different points along our fitness journey. “Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.” -Jon Acoff   There exists no end, only new beginnings. So, believe that you are in the very midst of becoming the amazing person who you were intended to be, and stop staring at other people. Make today the day you decide to change your attitude toward yourself. You have been you for a very long time. You are unique. I am inspired by you. Keep up the great work!

The Outdoors are Calling

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Do you find yourself spending an inordinate amount of time inside? Are you so wrapped up within the confines of your hectic lifestyle? Have you have deprived yourself of the freedom found though the act of “stopping to smell the roses”?

the great outdoorsWithout even realizing it, we can become prisoners stuck in our busy, daily routines. Many have sentenced themselves to spend the majority of their days and nights inside. They are inside their automobiles, inside the place of employment, inside their vehicle again, inside an entertainment hot spot, inside a restaurant, back inside their car yet again, and inside their house. I don’t think that anyone is immune from being caught up in the craziness and complexity that would appear to be a natural part of life these days. There is a sense that being busy in and of itself, brings some sort of sense of accomplishment. I believe that our minds, our bodies, and our spirits long for something much different. We naturally desire to be released from this societal captivity. While racing around just to complete a long list of tasks may be appealing to some, I believe most people wish they could be released from the complexity of lives spent inside “jail cells” of their own creating. “Today’s complexity demands greater simplicity.” ( L. Tom Perry)

I have a simple solution which is applicable to all.

Stop and get outside!

I don’t think I need to remind you of what you’ll find waiting there. Remember the fresh air and sunshine or gentle breeze blowing through your hair? Recall the extraordinary sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors. Some may agree, yes indeed, happiness is being outside. Others may contend that becoming one with nature is the key to a longer life. I would offer to you that creating opportunities to spend more time outdoors with family and friends, or just by oneself, greatly enriches the quality of our lives.

Think back to the days of your youth. Did you ever want to be trapped inside? If you were anything like me, the answer is a resounding “No!” If recess or playground time were considered a class, it was my favorite as a kid. I think back with great fondness on long days of playing anywhere, biking everywhere, and never wanting to go home. Well, except to eat my mom’s delicious cooking, of course. Sure, I also enjoyed engaging in outdoor sports.

For some of you, the connection to the great outdoors may have been found in fishing. For others, it may have been simply been going barefoot in the lush grass. How about strolling in the sand on the beach near the lake or ocean? Remember how peaceful you were and how awesome that felt. Still others may recall the fun of swimming in those bodies of water. Perhaps it may have been a backyard pool that transformed you into a fish. I’m certain that many of you spent fun-filled times camping. Far removed from the city, there was so much to discover. Looking up into the night skies at the stars comes into my mind. My eyes were opened to the stark contrast which the woods or country offered compared to the city life.

We cannot exactly bring back our youthful experiences. However, we need to build some new outdoor memories. I know that if we spend just a little bit more time outside today our minds will be more clear. I believe that we will all feel so much better if we attempt to find something outdoors that we can do on this day, regardless of our age or current physical condition.

If you agree with my advice, yet feel that you are being held back, let me help you to discover an activity in which you can participate today. Let me help to break those chains which bind you to that sedentary, indoor lifestyle that has inflicted many in the world. Getting physically fit does not require all your time to be spent indoors in a gym. Let’s get moving outdoors!

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3 Common Traits of Those That Reach Their Goals

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Victorious

Victorious

Had you resolved that this time you were finally going to reach your desired fitness goals? Yet, once again, disappointment is staring you squarely in the face. Have you cheerfully started along your chosen way only to be rudely derailed somewhere along the line more times than you care to remember? If you are wondering whether or not it is worth caring about any longer, remember this: “Your journey has molded you for your greater good. And it was exactly what it needed to be. Don’t think that you’ve lost time. It took each and every situation you have encountered to bring you to the now. And now is right on time!”-Asha Lyon

I know that you have become increasingly tired of this never-ending game of one-step-forward-two-steps-back. I am well aware of the dangers that exist to the body and the mind from this common “yo-yo” effect. The most important journeys we embark upon in life are filled with highs and lows. These tasks are monumental for certain. Utter agony may accompany those unfulfilled goals, while pure joy may be one’s companion when a life altering task is completed. But that is the real challenge, isn’t it? To finish what we start.

I have come to recognize three unique qualities possessed by those who are victorious in this back and forth battle. These common characteristics can help each of you to develop the protection against future foes. You may be acquainted with their names: Endurance, Hope, and Patience. Endurance bravely accepts the fact that there are difficulties now and will continue to be challenges on your chosen path. Endurance courageously captains your ship through the rough waters full of frustrating moments, which typically leave you questioning and even second guessing your plan. Endurance boldly defies what logic dictates. Of course, it is easier to give up than to get up. The strong, trustworthy hand of endurance is always extended to you to lift and then gently nudge you forward after you’ve been repeatedly beat up and knocked down. Its invitation is one of a life-long commitment. Short-term goals are wonderfully motivating, however an appropriate long-term perspective is an absolute requirement. When you sign on with Endurance, you have inked a long-term contract full of special guaranteed bonuses.

Because of Hope you can rest assured that your signature on the dotted line is sufficient. Yes, hope allows you to believe in things which you have not yet seen. This is possible because Hope has actually seen the new you. Hope doesn’t even glance at your past attempts or mistakes, but rather only peers into your bright and certain future. Hope is so much more than mere wishing. Hope will ensure that you never say, “I can’t.”

Benjamin Franklin said, “He that can have Patience, can have what he will.” When you join forces with Patience your partnership is solidified. Your success is, well, only a matter of time. Therein lies the irony for Patience does not operate on an exact timetable. It is different for everyone. Let me tell you that Patience is not just waiting around for something good and lasting to finally happen in your life. Patience builds a quiet confidence in yourself. Patience permits you to be imperfect. Patience allows you to wholeheartedly trust the process. “If today you are a little better than yesterday, then that’s enough.” – David A. Bednar. Patience is honoring the commitment you made to yourself by embracing Endurance and Hope. “Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.” – A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh.

Wherever you are going, may you always be helped along your journey. You have endured much. You can endure whatever life will throw at you. You have been prepared for success. Believe in the infinite power of hope. Be patient in all things and at all times and you will begin to turn the tide in your favor. That fundamental question remains to be answered by each of you: Shall I falter or shall I finish? Practicing these three qualities will enable you to bounce forward from any setback. They will enable you to finish what you have started. Of this truth, I can give you my promise.
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Bad Workout Today?

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Have you ever mumbled to yourself, “I had a bad workout today?”

Bad workout?

Bad workout?

I would hope that you have never uttered those destructive words. However, I know better. The chances are pretty good that most of you have said something quite similar from time to time. Having been in small gyms and large fitness centers for years, I have unfortunately heard this comment all too frequently. From the seasoned workout individual, to the gym rat, to the newbie bursting with enthusiasm, to the weekend workout warrior, from the young and from the not so young, from male to female, everyone thinks it and most verbalize it.

Typically, this is how an exchange will take place. I have just finished training one of my students. I eagerly greet someone new who awaits both my instructive and challenging training style. Among other things, I will inquire as to the particulars of this person’s most recent exercise efforts. Invariably, I hear “I feel as if I did not have a good workout.”

My desire today is to share a few thoughts on this concept of an alleged bad workout that just might give you reason to change your tune.

First and foremost, I must pose the question, “Did you hurt yourself?” If the answer is, “No!” then we are off to a great start. Simply put, if you have sustained some type of injury during the course of exercising then I would concede that there is clear evidence that a less than desirable workout took place. You are now on the dreaded disabled list for a while and nothing could be worse. You, however, said that no such travesty occurred. Therefore, I need more information. Tell me why you had a workout you’d soon wish to forget. Here are some typical responses: “My session just wasn’t as good as my previous one.” “I just didn’t have much time and I didn’t feel as if I accomplished anything.” “I was struggling with energy and couldn’t do a full workout.” “I have been exercising with my friend and she seems to do more than I am able to attempt.” The responses could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. If you are indeed guilty of uttering something comparable to these statements, I say that you are undermining your work when you have a mindset that could even produce such a response.

Please permit me to explain. Allow me to make this very clear. No one singular workout will now nor ever make or break your efforts to achieve your fitness goals. Comparing workouts is absolutely pointless, because it very much misses the point! An accumulation of all your good work will certainly prove to be fruitful. Your patience and diligence and amazing commitment will pay off. You can feel the positive effects of your accomplishments in the gym setting spill over into all other areas of your life. Do you have bad days? Well, sure. We all do in some way. But remember, each day is a precious gift and there are always blessings to be found if we just look around us. So, none of us is particularly immune from obstacles that prevent that “perfect workout” from occurring every time we train. Yes, we all deal with distractions such as work related issues, strained relationships, stress in its many forms, fatigue, and seemingly not sufficient time in the day to fit in an appropriate exercise session. Individually or packaged all together, these realities of life can rise up and punch us in the gut and leave us complaining, “I had a bad workout!”

I am here to tell you that in all likelihood you did not have a bad workout! You survived it, and emerged unscathed. You did not hurt yourself. However long and grueling it was, you did it. Quality always trumps quantity in regards to exercise! I ask you, “Did you give your very best effort today?” If you can tell me that you did so, then you will begin to understand that there can be no such thing as a bad workout. Given all that you drag with you to the gym, your current day’s experiences as well as previous day’s garbage heaped upon this one, if you give your all, you’ve done all you should ever expect. There is no such thing as a perfect workout, other than a completed one. Ten minutes, twenty, half an hour, or a full hour, it really does not matter. If you find yourself distracted, if you are running low on energy, if you have a million other things to do and as many other places you’d rather be, don’t be discouraged. Simply modify what you do! You are the only one who really knows if you put forth your very best.

So, go forward with confidence and hold your head high. Give your best effort in all that you do today. You are in the midst of something special, even magnificent. If you just can’t see a pathway to the optimism which I have, please reach out to me. I’ll even let you tell me about your mythical bad workout. If you are not sure exactly how you can overcome some of life’s pitfalls and still produce consistently good workouts, fear not. I can help.

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