The Golfing Mind: Recent Episodes
Robin Sieger
Insights to understanding the mental game of golf, with advice, tips, instruction and instant techniques you can apply to your game. From best selling author of Silent Mind Golf and two other books on the mental game. These are short reflections and instructions for golfers of all levels, from beginner to PGA Tour Pro
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Golf isn’t just a physical game—it’s a mental challenge, a test of patience, focus, and attitude. In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most critical topics for every golfer: the top ten things holding the average golfer back from improving. Whether it’s mental blocks, unhelpful attitudes, or mechanical flaws, we’ll uncover the barriers that stop you from reaching your potential—and, more importantly, how to overcome them.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your game, frustrated by inconsistency, or unsure how to take the next step, this episode is for you. We’ll tackle everything from mastering your mindset and embracing the right approach to improving your swing fundamentals and practice routines. Golf is a journey, not a destination, and we’re here to guide you through the process of building a stronger, more resilient game—both mentally and mechanically.
Get ready to explore actionable tips, relatable insights, and strategies you can implement immediately. Whether chasing your best score or just looking to enjoy the game more, this conversation will inspire you to think differently and play smarter. Let’s unlock the keys to better golf, one step at a time!
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This week on The Golfing Mind, we spotlight the remarkable rise of Scottie Scheffler, the World No. 1 golfer for the second consecutive year. In a sport where physical ability is matched only by mental fortitude, Scheffler stands out for his consistency and unparalleled psychological game. What makes him the best golfer in the world right now? We examine the five key factors behind his sustained dominance.
This episode unpacks the mental strategies that set Scheffler apart, from his ability to stay calm under pressure to his relentless focus and resilience. How does he maintain peak performance on the most challenging courses? What role does his mindset play in managing expectations and thriving on the biggest stages?
Through in-depth analysis, we uncover how Scheffler’s approach to pressure, preparation, and self-belief has propelled him to the top of the golfing world. Whether you’re an aspiring golfer or simply a fan of the game, this episode will provide invaluable insights into the mental strengths required to be the best.
Join us as we explore how Scottie Scheffler exemplifies the perfect fusion of skill and mental resilience, making him a true inspiration for golfers everywhere.
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Welcome to another episode of "The Golfing Mind!" We're stepping off the beaten fairway this week to bring you something different. Our guest isn't a touring pro or a seasoned coach but an everyman amateur weekend golfer, a lifelong friend of mine, Chris Braithwaite, who embodies the passion, struggles and triumphs we all experience in pursuit of our own perfect game. From lessons and practice to swing thoughts and technological aids, we'll dive deep into the trials and tribulations of improving at this beloved sport. Plus, we'll get his unique take on the professional scene and the upcoming Ryder Cup. So grab your comfy chair and join us for an episode that will resonate with golfers at every level!
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Welcome to The Golfing Mind, the podcast dedicated to helping golfers sharpen their mental game and take their skills to the next level. In today’s episode, Stop Overthinking Your Putts, we’ll explore the art of putting with clarity and confidence. Putting is often described as the game within the game, and yet it’s where overthinking can sabotage even the best swings.
This episode is packed with wisdom on how to simplify your approach to putting, emphasizing the importance of trusting your instincts and letting go of doubt. We’ll uncover six key takeaways to help you quiet your mind, read greens effectively, and develop a stroke that feels natural and repeatable.
If you’ve ever struggled with the yips or second-guessed your line, this episode is for you. Tune in, take a breath, and learn how mastering your mindset can transform your putting performance!
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Welcome back to The Golfing Mind! Today’s episode is all about building the mental strength and resilience every golfer needs—whether you’re chasing a lower handicap, facing tough competition, or simply trying to master the mental game. We all know golf isn’t just about the swing; it’s about what goes on between the ears.
In this episode, "10 Ways to Build Mental Strength and Resilience," we’ll explore powerful strategies for staying focused, calm, and confident on the course. We’ll explore everything from practical routines and mindset hacks to deeper, science-backed techniques for bouncing back from setbacks and keeping your game sharp under pressure.
But don’t worry—this isn’t your standard lecture on resilience! We’re keeping it fun and packed with insights that will improve your golf game and help you build a stronger mindset for life. So, tune in if you’re ready to strengthen your mental game and become the kind of golfer who thrives under any condition.
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Are you looking for an easier way to improve your mental golf game? You’re not alone. Most golfers dream of having a sharper, more resilient mental edge, but let’s be honest—few are willing to dedicate the time to mastering techniques like visualization, meditation, breathing, and stress management. But what if there was a simpler path?
Join Robin in this eye-opening episode as he dives into what he believes is the most effective (and yes, even a bit lazy!) approach to enhancing your mental game. It’s a method that doesn’t require hours of training but still exposes you to the emotional highs and lows you’ll face in real competition. If you're ready to up your mental game without the grind, this episode is for you!
Tune in and discover how you can start transforming your mindset with a format that’s as efficient as it is powerful.
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For many people who don't play golf, it may seem dull and boring. It's often viewed as just men in plaid pants chasing a little ball across a field. However, the additional benefits of playing golf for physical and mental health are often overlooked and misunderstood.
In today's podcast, Robin explores 15 benefits golf offers if we are open to them. These advantages extend beyond the golf course, enriching our personal and professional lives. It's a fascinating insight into why playing golf is not only good for our health but also beneficial for our minds.
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Welcome to another episode of The Golfing Mind, where we explore the fascinating parallels between a great golf swing and great comedy. On the surface, these two might seem worlds apart, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find striking similarities. Like a perfect swing, great comedy isn’t about deconstructing every moment — it’s about letting go, staying in the flow, and trusting your instincts.
Like a well-delivered punchline, a great golf swing is free-flowing and natural. It’s not overthought or forced but instead relies on rhythm and timing. Both require staying relaxed under pressure and letting the moment unfold without stress.
The beauty of both golf and comedy lies in their simplicity. Strip away the complications, and what you’re left with is something pure that works. Each golfer, like every comedian, has their unique style and ability. There’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s what makes both pursuits so enjoyable and personal.
So join us as we explore the similarities between these two art forms and discover how embracing simplicity can lead to greatness in golf and life.
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Welcome to Golfing Mind, the podcast that dives deep into the psychological side of golf—the unseen force that separates the good from the great. In this episode, we’ll explore the minds of arguably the top 10 mentally toughest golfers of all time, discovering what made these champions tick, how they overcame adversity, and the mental strategies that led them to legendary status on the course.
Golf is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. From the pressure of sinking a crucial putt on the 18th hole to the mental resilience needed to bounce back after a devastating loss, golf tests players in ways far beyond skill alone. These athletes have honed their swings, perfected their techniques, and built mental fortresses, withstanding the toughest challenges the game—and life—can throw at them.
In this episode, we’ll break down their defining moments and exploring how they used mental toughness to achieve success. Whether it’s Tiger Woods’ fierce focus under pressure, Jack Nicklaus’ unshakeable confidence, or Annika Sörenstam’s calm in the face of competition, we’ll uncover the mindset secrets that led these golfers to greatness. So, if you’re ready to explore the mental game behind golf’s biggest legends, you’re in the right place.
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Welcome to The Golfing Mind, a podcast where we explore the mental side of golf and dive deep into the strategies and teachings that help you unlock your full potential on the course. In each episode, I'll share insights from my journey and discuss the wisdom of my two favourite golfing teachers. Their philosophies have shaped my approach to the game, and I believe they can do the same for you. This podcast will offer practical tips and inspiring lessons to enhance your mindset and possibly help you rethink your approach to your swing. Join me as we discover how two teachers helped me develop my thoughts on the game and may transform your golfing experience!"
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My fourth book on the mental game of golf will be released later this year. This week, I am providing a preview of the book, with an overview of the content and what to expect.
The power of three books has been detailed in Analysis and exercises for the student. This book is much less instructive and much more reflective in terms of thoughts and suggestions for you to understand and apply as you see fit.
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As in all areas of life, golf, in particular, is a sport where confidence plays a very important part. Not only in terms of having a positive self-image and sense of self, but also in how we are able to perform by holding on to healthy self-belief. In today's podcast, Robin explores the importance of confidence and what to do when we lose it, including a simple three-step method to help restore, in part, at least confidence on the course.
Also, with the relaunch of https://www.siegergolf.com/, we are making a unique offer to the first 10 listeners to email robin@siegergolf.com, who will receive a free copy of any of Robin's audiobooks currently available on Audible.
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Davies Love III perfectly summarised the truth when he said, "..a routine isn't a routine if you have to think about it".
Every professional golfer on whichever tour they play knows that regardless of the shot, they will go through a pre-shot routine. The benefits are pretty well-known. For some, it is very mechanical; for others, it is a bit ritualistic; and for some, it looks like modern dance. But the one thing they all benefit from is that it settles them into a thought-free automatic process.
In today's podcast, Robin reflects on the many aspects and benefits we can expect if we become more routine in our play and practice.
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This year, we have seen two world-class players falter down the stretch and lose events due exclusively to missing clutch putts. It would be wonderful if there were a magic pill, a simple strategy to improve one's ability to perform when the pressure is at its highest. Sadly, life is not that simple. There is no one thing we need to do any more, and there is one Secret to success. What there are, I believe, principles we can apply. In today's short podcast, Robin addresses what he believes are the three single most important things we can do to improve our level of performance and rate of success on short clutch putts
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There is an old saying, "Practice makes perfect." If only that were true, but practice always results in improvement and gains. A game of golf is complex enough without introducing more practice protocols—allegedly to help us improve. Once the basic mechanics have been mastered, golf is a mental game. Yet, no one practices that mental gate because they do not believe it is possible; it can only be learned through real-world experience.
We should practice many areas of the mental game, both on and off the course. This will improve our golf and other aspects of our lives.
Reading books about cooking will not turn you into a chef. You have to put in the practice.
In today's podcast, I will discuss things you can do right now to exercise your mental processes, play better golf, and experience a higher level of performance in other areas of your life.
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With the final Major of the year upon us, golf fans around the world get to see what they love the most: the drama and excitement of the greatest players in the world competing head-to-head. This year, the Open Championship goes to Troon in Scotland, which last hosted the event in 2016, which saw the great head-to-head duel between Henrik Stenson and Phil Mickelson.
Scottish Links golf epitomises the open championship, with pot bunkers and penal rough and uneven surfaces both in the fairway and on the green. Nowhere in tournament golf does the expression "luck of the bounce" appear more relevant. Hoping to continue on the hot streak of Golfing Mind podcasts success in picking both winners and top-five finishes this week, Robin and guest cohost Matt 'Lucky' Barr (who picked Bryson DeChambeau to win the US Open last month) discuss the players in form the players to look out for and who they separately believe will hold the Claret jug on Saturday evening.
There is no such thing as a sure thing, but our predictions I have been on a very hot streak, as can be shown by listening to past broadcasts, so perhaps this may be an opportunity to put a few bets on a few players and sit on the edge of your seat for four days.
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Over the last 40 years, I have had many interesting conversations with friends and others about golf. Some of the questions that arise are somewhat earnest and serious about the state of the game, but more often than not, they are random, frivolous, downright silly and then, of course, there are the perennial old favourites that you're asked regularly by other golfers. This week I thought it would be interesting and fun to share these 15 questions with regular cohost Matt Barr and see how he navigated his way around the questions. I also share my thoughts and reflections on my answers
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For all its apparent simplicity, short pressure putts can often be the most challenging shot in a round, as inevitably, the match's outcome will depend upon it. Over 15 years of research into what makes the best golfers tick mentally, Robin this week explores what he believes are ten mental habits that should be avoided at all costs, speaking specifically over short-pressure putts.
Without a doubt, you will recognise one, two, or possibly more of the bad habits that have become part of your process inadvertently rather than give suggestions on how to overcome them. Robin believes that once you are consciously aware of them, they are easier to deal with.
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This week we review the US Open golf championship. It will be talk about for a long time for the right and wrong reasons one suspects. Sensational finish by the champion on the final hole with a death glory shot. Whilst favourite player struggled with his putter and missed two short putts, which one hopes does not become his defining moment. At the highest level, the pressure on the players is unimaginable for the average golfer and nobody is exempt from pressure. McIlroy did not have a collapse he simply at a critical moment did not execute short putts one of which was about as routine as it gets, whilst the other had a break that was downhill and not easy. This week and Matt discussed their thoughts on the event the course and the players. With analysis of what happens next.
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This special edition podcast previews our picks for the US Open Golf Championship at Pinehurst No.2 starting later this week on Thursday. At the moment it looks like Scottie Scheffler is unstoppable, and at the time of this podcast recording has been given the lowest odds ever given as the potential winner. The golf course has a fantastic heritage and a history of exciting golf with dramatic turns.
In this edition I am joined by Matt Barr a regular pundit for the majors and was recorded in North Carolina an hour away from Pinehurst, sadly I will not be attending the open championship this year but have picked my top tips for who to watch. This podcast has historically had great success in predicting winners and top-five players let's see if we get it right again.
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I am delighted to share some extracts from my new audiobook, Golf Under Pressure.
Whether amateur or Tour professional, every golfer will experience that crucial moment when victory hinges on just one shot. Make it, they win; blow it and they will re-live the memory on the golf course for years to come. They have arrived at their personal moment of truth . The question is: can they handle it?
This book, the follow-up to his acclaimed Silent Mind Golf, sees Robin Sieger explore the concept of choking and apply his easy-to-grasp mental conditioning techniques to help golfers at all levels perform under pressure.
Using examples from the careers of the game's greatest players and case studies drawn from other sports and walks of life, Robin demystifies the psychological secrets of performing well at critical moments and demonstrates how understanding the choke point enables us to conquer it.
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I am frequently asked which book on the mental game of golf I consider my favourite. Having read as many titles as I have been able to find over the past 20 years, I can only answer by announcing my favourite book. I have long thought that if a title is considered the best, then there would be more or less universal agreement. The reality is that some books resonate with us more than others. The book that had the biggest impact on me will be discussed in this podcast. In addition, I will be talking a little bit about my recent golf trip to Nairn GC in Scotland, and in particular the final hall on the last day and the test of mental strength amongst golfers, which didn't quite end as anticipated and I doubt we'll ever be discussed again for reasons which will become obvious :-)
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This week, I am delighted to share some extracts from my new audiobook, Silent Mind Putting, available on Audible. I have turned my golf instruction books into audiobooks with short chapters, which are perfect for listening to on the way to the golf course.
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If you tell a golfer to get fit, they immediately and rightly assume you're talking about their physical and cardiovascular strength, stamina and flexibility. All of these are naturally important, but so is getting fit put the right clubs and indeed a good fit for the right teacher.
This week, I interview European PGA professional golfer Stewart Fraser, whom I met by chance when I went for a club fitting at Stainton Golf Centre in Yorkshire, England. It was by some margin the best club fitting I have had, which I put down to a combination of Stewart's inherent instinct, knowledge, and proper understanding of technological data. We discussed the importance of knowing your swing, how to most benefit from lessons and the critical value of proper practice.
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Here it is, our regular special podcast, looking at the second major of the year. Who are the players to look out for, from our top picks to the outsiders to watch? Where to put your hard-earned money.
This week, Robin is joined by guest contributorTom Needham.
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I thought this week it would be worthwhile to share some interesting facts about myself, specifically as it relates to golf. Every golfer has experiences on and off the golf course, which influence and, to a degree, shape the way they develop as golfers in terms of outlook, attitude, and ability.
Therefore, I have highlighted about ten or so anecdotes from the past to the present day that have profoundly influenced me and led to the development of the books I have written. Equally, some of the stories are just fun ones I like retelling. My love of the professional game goes back to my childhood, when, as a young kid with short pants, I would follow my father around the open championship venues to see his heroes in action.
Later in life, I got a world record in golf and started a tournament that I had hoped would become a classic, possibly for all the wrong reasons. So, this week, sit back and relax as I ramble for 30 minutes about my world of golf and some unusual facts I experienced along the way.
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Recently, my golf clubs were removed (stolen) from my car, and I imagine I only have myself to blame as, for some reason, best known to the universe at large, I appear to have not locked the doors.
This unfortunate event - led me to look at my options to get new golf clubs. It is always a fun thing to do, but perhaps we invest too much time and trust in advertising blurb, technological promises and sales staff enthusiasm. It was a most enlightening experience for more reasons than you may imagine, but it helped me clarify what I truly believe are the most important considerations when it comes to getting clubs.
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Following this year's US Masters Championship, a clear player has established beyond any doubt they are justifiably the No. 1 player in the world. Winning three of the last four events in which they have played and runner-up in the fourth, we have not seen this level of dominance since Tiger in his glory year in 2000.
What can we learn from Scottie Scheffler's approach and obvious mental mastery? We also look at the chasing pack of Morikawa, Homa and Aberg and what explore went wrong for them.
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The best-selling golf instructional book on the mental game, Silent Mind Golf, has finally been turned into a much-anticipated audiobook read by the author after 10 years. The book explores the mental game of golf and looks at three key principles. It goes on to a little historical detail but is packed full of tips, thoughts, and things you can apply immediately to improve your understanding and ability to execute your best golf.
In today's podcast, Robin introduces a 20-minute extract of the book which will be I hope a thought-provoking eye-opener of the book's approach and style.
The audiobook comes with instructional lessons and a guided meditation track, which can be listened to at home but certainly not while driving or operating machinery.
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The Masters is probably the most keenly awaited Major of the year, the spectacle, the drama, the final nine holes. No Major in the world compares when it comes to speculation and seeing the very best in the world go head-to-head. In this week's podcast, Robin and Mike reflect on the tournament and make their predictions as to who they think will be putting on the green jacket come Sunday.
It is worth noting that last year, the golfing my podcasts predicted three of the four winners. Can we go one better this year?
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Mental toughness is considered a prerequisite to being a successful, high-achieving winner. For many, it is the holy grail of skills, the missing X factor that separates them from greatness.
But what do we mean by mental toughness? In business, mental toughness and resilience have become new buzzwords, as though they are tools we must have. In today's podcast, Robin will explore the factors we can control that will enable us to improve our mental toughness and resilience on and off the golf course.
People often mistake stubbornness for mental toughness, and they couldn't be more wrong. We recommend you get a pen and paper for this podcast, as it provides many tips that you can apply immediately to your mindset to improve your mental toughness.
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How often have we had a player referred to as the best player never to have won a Major? It is a classic example of being damaged by faint praise. There are so many stunningly talented golfers in the past and even presently who everyone believes will win a major until it appears they never did. Why did this happen? Is it simply a matter of fate and destiny, or perhaps is it possible there is just a little more to the equation that defined their career?
It is a question I have often been asked and discussed with friends. It is multifactorial, with no quick, short, simple, precise answer. I do, however, believe there are factors, and the degree to which these factors are present during a major tournament, I believe, greatly impacts the chance for the player to get it done.
In today's podcast, Robin reflects on these factors in his opinion.
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Is mental toughness and the will to win something you are born with, or is it a quality you can develop? This question has long puzzled sports psychologists, and in this week's podcast, Robin talks with golf enthusiasts and past partners in quite a number of tense and dramatic matches, Tom Needham. Tom turns the tables on Robin and gets his thoughts on confidence, competitiveness, and the mental side of matchplay.
Tom agreed to appear on the podcast so he would have the opportunity to set the record straight from a scandalous claim made by Robin in last week's podcast.
An informal and entertaining exchange between two friends.
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It's that time of year again. When we look at our golf bag and think, "Maybe it's time for a change," I don't mean that we think we need to get a new golf bag. Oh no, we need a new top-of-the-range set - to hell with the expensive, shiny, totally excellent-brand set of make-my-friends jealous new clubs.
We may need to review our current clubs and upgrade or even potentially downgrade them, but the most important thing is that the decision is made with logic and not ego. In this week's podcast, we explore factors that influence the decision-making process in a light-hearted yet relevant way.
Robin also reveals his two favourite drivers.
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How often has someone suggested to you there is a secret move in the game of golf, a technique, a grip, a secret move or a mechanical device that will unburden you from the pain and suffering that regularly descends upon you whilst on the golf course?
It has become, for many keen golfers, their holy grail. To discover that one elusive thing that will transform them from a long-suffering average golfer to a much-envied great player. You only have to read enough golf magazines regularly to hear teaching professionals praise the move that will release golfers from a future of suffering
Is it true?
Are there secrets awaiting discovery if we know the password or secret handshake to have it revealed to us? In this week's podcast, Robin looks into this murky world of promises and disappointment.
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Sometimes, it is good to remember that the simple basics are often the best and rarely the most obvious. In this podcast, Robin explores the very simple philosophy of a Zen monk who brought the whole concept of the art of mindfulness to Western culture. While presenting at a recent conference in Portugal, Robin discovered one of his quotations in an old computer file, and it served him so well that he realised, at many levels, it is the ultimate mantra for the mental game of golf.
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In this week's podcast, Robin and long-time friend Jim Hammond explore the world of fitness and talent with regard to how it can best nurture golf talent. In addition, Jim shares his approach to pressure and how he has been able to apply lessons learned in other sports to the golf course.
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In this first episode of the podcast in 2024 Robin and his cohosts explore for golf fans really want, they also discuss whether are there any rules that should be reviewed or reconsidered. Also included is a preview of the major venues for next year with the usual generous inclusion of thoughts and opinions about the game in general and the direction it may be heading.
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In this week's podcast, the last podcast of 2023, Robin and co-host Mike Kershaw (the ex-under 14 East Lancashire Long Drive Champion in 1986) - shoot the breeze on several golf-related topics, some curious facts and opinions are expressed as well as the usual collection of stories and advice.
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What is it that I do? In this week's podcast, I go into depth as to why I do what I do, my approach the logic behind it and the success it brings players.
I explore the science behind mental conditioning and share a few thoughts and reflections to ponder over this Christmas season with a very unique and special offer for fans of Silent Mind Golf and this podcast
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The mental game of golf is not simply about being born with some genetic predisposition to being tough under pressure. (If only that were true!!) Which in reality is not the case.
Rather, it is about the ability to use the mind as a tool to work for you and not against you. Nowhere is this better demonstrated by understanding the difference between mental strength and mental attitude. Mental strength is like a muscle you have to develop which can be done through a series of drills and exercises. Mental attitude is simply a state of mind you adopt it can be done in a heartbeat, however, it is interesting to note how many people are unaware that their attitude is holding them back, and in many cases destroying their enjoyment of the game.
In this week's podcast, I look at the importance of attitude and the five key attitudes to adopt to give yourself your best chance to play your best golf.
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In this week's podcast, I am delighted to have as my guest Brian Harman the Open Champion 2023 at Royal Liverpool Golf Club. His five-shot victory was a masterclass in strategy and execution. He was kind enough to give us an hour of his time in one of his rare weeks off the golf course. Where he shared his OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP memories and thought processes as he gave the golf fans a a thrilling final two rounds. He talks about his experience playing in his first Ryder Cup. As well as other matters relating to golf from mindset to putting.
It was a very enjoyable interview and a must-listen for all golf fans.
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he idea of that perhaps there is one golden ancient secret 'must do' lesson, that will enable you to become a better putter must be for many of the Holy Grail of golf instruction with the flat stick.
My interest in putting for the last 20 years has always been much more about the mental process rather than mechanical technique. In my book Silent Mind Putting, I looked at the greatest putters and what they had in common, I will let you into a secret - it was not technique, in fact, one or two of the greatest putters the game has ever known had techniques that no professional would advise you copy.
The difference therefore must be above the neckline, it's in the head. In this week's podcast, I look at one simple tip that I have been working with for 15 years that I truly believe Will create a shift in your thought process if you engage with the drills that accompany it, and see a change in your fortunes on the green.
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Other than simply their ability to play much better golf than we do, there are many many things professionals do that we simply don't. One might argue because golf is their profession and the way they make their money they would naturally do more, and this is true. However, the key things which enable them to perform at the highest level are simple things that we too are able to engage with - if we so choose I am fairly confident an improvement in your play will be witnessed and I am sure it will add greatly to your confidence and your enjoyment.
So here are the 10 things professionals do but you probably don't but really should.
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Putting is an area of golf or I believe the average golfer can see the greatest improvement in their scoring if they are to apply one or two simple mental tips. Naturally, there is no substitute for actual practice however the importance of attitude and belief is linked to confidence and positivity.
There is an extraordinary desire to hit the ball as hard as we can and the primitive pleasure of doing so can (I admit) be hard to beat, however, tournaments are won and lost on the putting green more often than not. In today's podcast some quick tips to get you on the road to perfection.
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In sport, as in business, there is a huge premium put upon leadership. There are legendary leaders whose behaviours have been studied and analysed in the hope of revealing secrets.
In golf, there are very few team events as such, and we know from the past how critical a role a Captain plays in bringing it all together. For the average golfer every match requires the player are able to manage themselves (be self-led), perform at their highest level and have the ability to be a 'great' partner.
This means at times being the lead player in the pairing, how do we do this?
Listen in and all will be revealed.
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One of the greatest stumbling blocks to success on the golf course is the inability of golfers to manage pressure. Much of this pressure is self-inflicted but not having a strategy to manage it only compounds the problem.
No one is immune from pressure though the better players have learned to use it as opposed to being overwhelmed by it. In this podcast, Robin discusses three immediate strategies any player can employ to reduce the level of influence the pressure is having on their play.
Pressure never goes away and there is no magic bullet that makes us fearless however there are strategies we can apply where we use it to work with us rather than against us.
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In this week's podcast we reflect upon the Ryder Cup in Italy. As always playing the role of armchair quarterback after the event it's a lot easier than making predictions before the event. In fact, in our Ryder Cup preview podcast we picked Europe to win by one point.
Robin and Neil discussed in some detail their thoughts and reflections on this year's Ryder Cup in particular and the event in general. It is always a finely balanced affair even though the score sometimes can mislead. There is no doubt that Europe always looked in a better position to succeed than the visitors, especially after the frosty morning foursomes.
The event is now firmly established as the greatest golf show on Earth and long may it continue. But, what can we learn from this year's Ryder Cup?
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100 years ago nobody had a mental game coach they didn't exist. Very few professional players even had a swing coach most were self-taught or asked their colleagues for tips or suggestions. You only have to look at the variety of swings in years gone by to see a lot of people were self-taught.
With a mental game, the whole notion of a mental game coach has become a recent development. In today's podcast, Robin looks at the history of the mental game and its coaches. He also comes up with a few surprises - that you may not have been aware of regards players who you imagine never had a coach but did.
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Are people born mentally tough, and it happens to be their good fortune or is it a skill or mindset that we can grow like a muscle? In this podcast, Robin, regular co-host Mike Kershaw and guest Matt Barr discuss this with interesting observations and suggestions that will help all players.
What do golf fans want? In the modern arena of professional golf, fans care little for the prize money, they are more enthralled by the drama and the rivalries. In this week's podcast, Robin speaks with regular contributor Matt Barr from America, (where this podcast was recorded), they also take a look at the benefits of getting custom-fitted clubs.
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In a few weeks, the tremendous gladiatorial competition that is the Ryder Cup begins again. There are very few sporting events with the anticipation, drama, heartbreak, epic heroics and excitement of the Ryder Cup.
After Europe's bruising defeat to the Americans two years ago, can Europe turn it around when the cup is back in Italy, where the Ryder Cup is being played for the first time? Who will be the captain's picks? This question, without doubt, keeps the journalists, commentators and fans guessing until the last moment. There are so many factors to consider that it becomes a near impossible task to ensure you have the very best possible picks, and sometimes people who have qualified - are off form; only adding to the pairings and tactics makes it one of the most keenly anticipated Ryder cups in memory.
In this week's podcast, Robin, Mike, and Neil, will put on their thinking hats and look at their crystal balls in the hope they can shed some light into what may be the outcome.
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This year two of the greatest golfers currently playing, and both major winners have been getting themselves in a position to win another major, only to see it slip through their fingers due to bad putting, particularly in the final round.
Rory McIlroy and Scotty Scheffler have demonstrated in every major this year that their ability tee to green is amongst the very best on tour, yet on the green, their statistics indicate they are well down the rankings. What's gone wrong?
In this week's podcast, Robin, joined by regular co-hosts Mike and Neil, explores possible causes and looks at potential solutions to help get them out of the final round slump they both seem to experience on the putting green.
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I can think of no more destructive shot in golf than the yip. Most commonly it is associated with an affliction of the putter, where the poor player makes what appears to be an involuntary movement of the muscles that result in a hideous shot.
In reality, people have the yips with other clubs notably the wedge and the driver. There is an old adage which is once you've got them you've got them, and this is not true they can be overcome and often it is easier than you might imagine
In today's special edition podcast, Robin will explore the reality behind the psychology and more importantly the physiology of the dreaded yip, and not only explain in detail but give concrete steps to overcoming them.
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There is a time in every golfer's career when they play an extraordinary round of golf, a blissful round of golf that comes as close to perfection as it is possible to imagine. What led to it remains a mystery as puzzling as the origins of the pyramids.
In the world of sport psychology, it is a state referred to as optimal flow. A state of mind where - there is no fear, - there is no time, - there is only a calm certainty of outcome. I have had many descriptions of it, being a dream state, or even a feeling of otherworldliness. What is certain is that (sadly) we have no real way of entering into that state at will, what we can do by understanding the key factors that appear to be present during that state is give ourselves the best opportunity to be open to it by removing the potential blocks.
In this week's podcast, Robin will give his insights into what he believes, are the three key plus additional less obvious factors that enable us to reach the state.
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This week's podcast previews the 151st Open Championship, played at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club, also known as Hoylake. As always, Mike Kershaw, Neil Falconer, and the host Robin Sieger attempt to analyse their top players who they believe have the best chance of walking off with the Claret Jug. Never an easy task- however, in previous major previews, we have picked two winners, so who knows, can we make it three out of four?
This year sees a new hole coming into play on the 17th, which will guarantee edge-of-the-seat drama until the end.
Sit back and enjoy this week's informal good-humoured discussion between Robin, Mike and Neil.
Who is the greatest golfer of all time?
This question has often been the source of heated differences of opinion, and writers clearly believe there can never be the greatest of all time. There can only be the greatest of a particular era. In this week's podcast, we put ourselves on the spot, and each of us picks who we believe is the greatest golfer of all time.
In this week's podcast, Robin Neil and Mike make a case for their top three players and look at several often-overlooked players. Though major titles seem the best way to rank greatness, it falls short in identifying the most talented or gifted all-around player.
One or two players may be mentioned that will surprise you, and doubtless, you will have your thoughts on the matter. Another aspect of the greatest players is their mental strength and resilience, which is also examined.
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Former European tour professional and SKY Golf commentator Richard Boxall is my guest on this one-off special edition of The Golfing Mind. Richard shares his thoughts and reflections from his time on the tour, how the game has changed and recalls in detail his single most extraordinary exit from an open championship that has now become the stuff of legend.
With a 40-year career in and around the professional game and as a commentator for SKY Television his insights and reflections make for a great listen.
Slow play, for many players, is disruptive and makes a fun day into an endurance test. One of the great challenges is how to, keep it moving and reduce standing around on waiting for tee boxes without getting frustrated and angry.
Robin, Mike and Neil discuss ways it may be improved or an alternative way to get along with it without losing your cool.
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Over the past two years, we have previewed the major championships with extraordinary success at picking winners and runners-up. Can we do it again?
Rob and pick the winner of the USPGA, and is confident you can do it again at the US Open, or at least he hopes so. Mike Kershaw and Neil Falconer give their reasons for their picks (which include two long shots) and the guys talk a little bit about the course and the tournament.
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We can all (sadly) suffer a catastrophic loss of form on the golf course. It may last for a few holes, and it may last for the whole round. In every golfer's life, there will be weeks, if not months, when this loss of form is as puzzling as the pyramids and the solution as remote as a banjo-playing unicorn.
It can not only be demoralising but also spoil our enjoyment of the game to such an extent that people end up retiring from the game. However, that we should lose our form is not such a mystery as we are human and, therefore, Will experience highs and lows in many of our personal and professional endeavours.
The real question is what can we actively do about the situation to restore our game or at least not be dragged into (as happens so often with professionals) go down the paralysis-by-analysis path. Believing there is a straightforward thing we need to do to turn it all around.
In the professional game, there are some significant Major winners, who two years have fallen out of the top 100 rankings and, a few years after that, have disappeared entirely from the Tour. Fortunately, we don't play golf for a living, but there are things that will get us back to playing good golf and restoring personal satisfaction.
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Bunkers! Love or hate them, they are a big part of the game, and I suspect, on the balance of evidence, most people do not love them. However, for the average club golfer, they can be a source of catastrophe, and once confidence is gone, it can make for very challenging and often upsetting experiences.
In this week's podcast, Mike and Robin look at bunkers in a more pragmatic light and ask, what is the big fuss about? Is it a shot that depends more on technique rather than feel? What makes the great bunker players? Is it ever worth taking a drop inside a bunker when faced with an impossible lie?
Technology today is naturally as good as ever, yet the required skill level remains the same. The importance of confidence cannot be understated, yet for the average golfer, it is precisely this factor which is the cause of much upset. Therefore what can you do to build confidence and go from being a person who dreads being in the bunker to one who gleefully pulls their sand wedge out of their bag with a spring in the step and the certainty they're getting out and putting it close?
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In every good drama, there are the good guys and the bad guys. These characters are the staple of most movies, urban myths and timeless morality tales. Sport, in particular, is an area where there are famously well-known grudge encounters between teams and personalities that have a chequered history.
In martial arts, boxing, wrestling and more recently MMA there are infamous encounters between people who really don't (appear) to like each other very much at all. This may be a marketing ploy to sell tickets - with one character defined as the baddie, nowhere is this more apparent than in professional wrestling. Which one could easily argue is a combination of sport and theatre.
In golf are there heroes and villains? In this week's podcast, we look at situations and characters where the average spectator would find themselves unwittingly taking sides often quite passionately. Are there heroes and villains and golf? Let's find out
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Next week the USPGA Championship -the year's second major gets underway. As always, we at The Golfing Mind podcast put on our thinking hats and bookmakers' mindset, then offer our thoughts and reflections before picking our three picks for who will take away the prize.
Over the past five majors, we have been consistently getting our picks finishing in the top ten spots as well as picking two winners. Can we make it six in a row? It's easy to pick the hot favourite, but as we know, it is rarely the winner.
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The Open Championship and the United States Open Championship. That's are the most significant major tournaments in the eyes of purists. The competitors are there by merit alone, not by invitation or association; they are the original majors.
In this week's podcast, we explore the unique qualities which make them so wonderful a test of golf. Plus, explore traditions or idiosyncrasies associated with one but not the other. There has long been the debate about which is the greatest of the majors; frankly, I think this is a rather pointless debate as it is up to the individual to decide for themselves which Major Championship they believe is the most significant test of golf and holds itself accountable to the highest standards and traditions of the game.
In truth, there is nothing to choose between them, and it does come down to personal preference. Often this is more of a Geographic loyalty rather than a detailed analysis
So to be clear, this podcast is not about which is better; instead, we explore the Championships in some detail. Express our likes and dislikes and look at it in terms of tradition.
Mike and I don't agree on everything, but there are some curious outcomes from the conversation and one surprise that both of us aback.
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If you were to ask the average golfer which part of the game would they wish to improve, I think the short game would have the greatest number of requests. It is probably the single area of the game where, when it goes wrong it can go catastrophically wrong and in some cases, a remedy would appear almost impossible.
It begs the question, is it a mental problem or a mechanical problem, or do the mental and mechanical feed each other, "the worse you play the less confidence you have, the less confidence you have the worse you play". It then becomes a downward spiral. Conversely, it may be demonstrable that the opposite is true and an upward spiral can be created.
Is the technology, wonderful as it is creating more reliance on physics and design than on technique? Plus, what do all the great short-game players appear to have in common? (other than being great short-game players obviously :-)
In this week's podcast, we discuss the short game that from our experiences we believe to be key factors, and I will look specifically at the mental side of it which I believe is definitely the keystone to the mechanical.
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In this week's podcast, we share our favourite golf books. Some you may be able to guess, and others I am sure you will never have heard of before. However, we discuss why we like them and what we learned from them and hope you will find some insights, nuggets or straightforward enjoyment from reading them.
Given the thousands of books written about instruction, Neil, Mike and Robin's picks may surprise you, and Mikes pick curiously was the 'bible' of instruction that both Tiger Woods and Nick Faldo embraced whilst learning.
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It is that keenly awaited time of the year again when the Masters' tournament appears over the horizon, signifying the end of winter and the start of the major season.
The most colourful and exciting of the majors, it is a truly magnificent showcase for professional and elite amateur golf worldwide.
It is golfing theatre, at its best, the drama of the final nine holes. It is as close to fantasy golf as we can imagine. There cannot be a golfer alive who does not dream of putting on a green jacket.
In this week's podcast, we discuss the current and historical tournament, as well as getting first-hand impressions of playing the course and revealing a few facts that many television viewers will probably be unaware of.
Plus, we explore and pick our potential winners of this event. This year there will be the added drama of LIV players alongside the elite of the PGA Tour. The top players use the week before the Masters to practice and get their game in Augusta National shape. As always, predicting the winner will be no easy task, but several players will be in the mix on Sunday afternoon. Last year The Golfing Mind podcast correctly predicted two of the Major winners. So we are naturally hoping to improve on that this year.
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Is mental toughness something we are born with? Is it a skill set we can develop?
In Professional Golf, some players are famous for getting the job done. Others are sadly infamous for when their moment of opportunity arose, somehow snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. Their failure became a defining moment, and many never returned to the top of a leaderboard again, and in some cases giving up the game of golf entirely.
In today's podcast, Robin, Neil, and Mike discuss what lies at the heart of mental toughness and explore players and events that have shaped many careers. There is a division between those who believe it is something we are inherently born with and others who think it is a mental muscle we can develop and grow. As always, there is a difference of opinions and a few areas of commonality. However, it is worth noting that in the age before the arrival of mental conditioning gurus, some of the toughest players in the game had one remarkable thing in common this will be discussed in detail along with other aspects of the game.
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As if golf was not challenging enough, for many of us, the Rules of Golf can be a minefield of misunderstanding and confusion. How often have you been playing in a four-ball when no one knew exactly the correct ruling in a given situation? It has been famously said that golf is not a fair game. Can the same be said of the rules?
The Rules of Golf have evolved over hundreds of years, and the governing bodies are always looking to make the game as fair as possible, but are there any rules that you think are questionable, or would you like to see amended or amended abandoned?
What about infringements of the rules that you may witness? Do you call out the other player in a social game or let it go? To discuss this and more, Robin is joined by Neil Falconer and Matt Barr to explore and discuss this aspect of the game that sometimes can be so puzzling.
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Golfers worldwide are always looking for the edge, that secret discovery that will give them immediate improvement. Most average golfers believe that advantage is found in technology, new design, new shaft, new club face or new ball construction.
Every year, some golfers buy the latest technology to help them play better, while others elect to play with the same set of clubs for 20 years to an acceptable standard. So what is the right approach?
Whilst manufacturers announce their latest innovation to help golfers at all levels improve. The more cynical amongst us may say if these claims were actual, year after year, then why are we not playing significantly better golf than 25 years ago?
In today's podcast, Robin discusses with Co-hosts Neil Falconer and Matt Barr the impact of technology and the pros and cons of adopting the latest innovation too soon.
To put this in context, in 2023, the global golf equipment market size is expected to be $8.74 billion. Should we all embrace new technology regularly, or maybe there could be another approach that we can benefit from?
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What is the best match-play strategy?
Match play golf is not quite a gladiatorial encounter or combat sport between two people rather it is a perfect mix of tactics, psychology, instinct and golfing ability under pressure. Some players are they are very difficult, if not almost impossible, to beat. One only has to think of Ian Poulter in his Ryder Cup singles, where he is just the most formidable competitor, yet he hasn't in stroke play shown the same level of brilliance that we have seen in his singles matches. In today's podcast, we explore strategies for giving ourselves the edge.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but perhaps there are one or two things we can all benefit from understanding and applying in the game. For example, do you play your opponent, or do you play the golf course? Does it help you if you get mad at your opponent and make it personal?
In some parts of the world, it is a more popular format than stroke play, and there are some clubs where it is almost played exclusively. At its best, it can be a tension-packed shot-by-shot encounter where it is never over until it's over.
In today's podcast, Robin Sieger and Mike Kershaw. Put their theories and thoughts to the test.
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What do the great putters in the game of golf have in common?
Putting has been called a game within a game; for some, it is the ultimate science, yet others, myself included, consider it more of an art. The debate will continue forever, but for now and in this podcast, let's explore this simple question – "what goes into making a great putter"?
In today's podcast, we explore this theme and see if any fundamentals appear to be familiar to each. For the average golfer, it is the only part of the game where they can rapidly improve their handicap in the shortest time. Therefore, it begs the question of why so few amateur golfers put in dedicated time to practising that part of the game. In today's podcast, Robin Sieger and Mike Kershaw discuss and disagree on some of the factors that separate the best from the rest.
Robin is the author of Silent Mind Putting. This book looks at the mental aspects of this part of the game and believes passionately that for people going through a slump, two things are going on, a significant lack of confidence and, almost certainly, they are overthinking.
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Welcome to the newly formatted Golfing Mind podcast.
For the past two years, I have explored the mental game of golf in all its many aspects. In past podcasts, I have spoken about golf in general and the mental game in particular. I am now delighted that the format is reversing that focus, and an extended running time. It also includes two co-hosts. Who have a wealth of experience and a lifelong love of the game, to discuss the diverse aspects of the world of golf with humour and light-heartedness, we will share thoughts, and suggestions, as well as plenty of disagreements and reflections on the game we love.
Each week the podcast will have a theme, and we will explore that theme in terms of stories, statistics, lessons learned, curious facts and, always, in as entertaining a manner as possible. Today I'm delighted to introduce the first of the co-hosts, Mike Kershaw, someone I have known for over 35 years who is a fine golfer with a wealth of experience in the game at both a playing level, where he has been a scratch golfer for over 30 years, as well as business interests that include golf course management. He also holds an admirable golfing title but more of that later.
Welcome to the all-new Golfing Mind
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Following a short winter hiatus, The Golfing Mind Podcast is back. Hooray!!
With the 2023 golf season now underway in the professional world, it is worth taking a look at some of the things which may be of interest and help to players worldwide.
The drama or soap opera which is the PGA versus the LIV tour continues to play out how it will finally be as a matter of speculation but I have some thoughts I would like to share as to how I think things will finally end up. Additionally, at the start of the year, most of us set ourselves some very well-intentioned goals but other than hoping we play better golf we don't zero in on what we need to do immediately and work on specifically in our game and with that in mind I have a suggestion.
The Golfing Mind will be a weekly podcast but going forward it will be longer with guests and cohosts to discuss the game of golf in general but the mental game of golf more closely.
If there is one area of golf that every player, regardless of their age or ability, can see dramatic improvement, it is on the putting green. The best putter in the professional game at the moment is the Australian golfer Cameron Smith; in this podcast, I will be discussing in detail what I believe are some of his key methods of giving himself the best possible chance of making the pub.
Golf is a strange game - the professionals practice much more than they play, whilst the amateurs play much more than they practice. With the winter months approaching the Northern Hemisphere, this is the perfect time to practice your putting at home, as well as truly develop your mental game.
For one month only, I have the pleasure of announcing the Silent Mind golf Silver program will be available with a 50% reduction. This offer ends on the 5th of January, 2023.
If you go to the sales page (link above) and type in SMG100, you will be able to get the discount. This discount is only available for this course, not the gold and platinum editions.
In my professional career helping others in the world of peak performance, there are a number of quick-fix techniques that work every time and work instantly if they are properly applied with 100% commitment.
Mental conditioning is similar to physical conditioning, the more you do it the more obvious the benefits become. However, within the mind, there are shortcuts we can apply in stressful situations that will bring immediate relief and help us reset. There is no shortcut to excellence as the old saying goes "What you put in is what you get out".
Many world-class chefs have developed techniques in the kitchen that save them a great deal of time and can produce very acceptable results, the same is true in many other professions where effective shortcuts produce acceptable results, golf psychology is no different.
In this week's podcast, I share my five top quick-fix mental conditioning hacks you can apply on the course with immediate effect. The only thing you have to do is apply them, believe in them and commit to them.
When Bobby Jones the legendary golfer was in a position on the final hole to win his first major tournament he faced a very challenging shot over water if he could make a birdie he would win. However, to make birdie would require him not to lay up, but to reach the green in two. Whilst pondering what to do he caught the eye of his club professional a Scotsman called Stuart Maiden, it is recorded that Stuart looked at Bobby Jones and simply said “Take dead aim”.
This week we look at the importance of purpose as a tool in your bag. Too many golfers are indecisive, lack commitment to a given shot, or simply hit and hope, none of which are strategies. Over the past five weeks, I have undertaken a long-distance hike that was very challenging but helped me reconnect to the importance of purpose and passion.
P.S. Bobby Jones indeed took dead aim and held the green then two-putted for a birdie to win his first major.
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A loss of confidence generally stems from one aspect of your game, which then creates a domino effect that infects all other areas. Suddenly you dread picking up what used to be your favourite club, and the simplest of shots suddenly take on the appearance of the impossible. At its worst (within the professional game) it is a career-ending situation, for weekend amateurs, it leads to misery and a sense of loss for a game we used to enjoy so much.
What can you do about it?
Lots,
This podcast gives 6 fixes to implement
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Everyone can benefit from lessons, but too often we overload ourselves with way too many tips and fixes, so rather than develop a solid and repetitive swing we end up, with way too many swing thoughts that keep chopping and changing. This leads to inconsistency and the
dreaded loss of confidence. If you seek to play better and more consistency the lessons you most need to implement are perhaps much simpler than you may imagine.
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When competing in matchplay or strokeplay, the question arises: Would you rather be in the lead with six holes to go, or would you rather be chasing the leader? The evidence often suggests it is easier to pursue as you have a fixed goal and a need to play well than trying to defend a lead. Players have proven themselves to be fantastic in the chase while others are better in the lead. There is no correct answer to this. It has to be a personal preference. In this episode, Robin weighs up the pros and cons of both approaches.
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With over 30 years of research and experience, Robin explores what he believes to be the number one mistake amongst amateur and recreational golfers. The curious thing is though it is a widespread mistake, it is probably the easiest fix. It, therefore, is overlooked not cause it's easy to fix but cause people don't realise it is a huge problem and is impacting their game much more negatively than they would have imagined.
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Though golf may not be as tactical as chess, there is no doubt that we have to apply strategy to our play. Nowhere is this considered more evident than in match play. So the big question is, what is the most effective tactic to adopt to give ourselves the best advantage post up a seemingly simple and straightforward question with a few more variables than may appear obvious at first. This podcast examines what Robin considers the three most essential factors tactically in match play.
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Here are seven tips for mastering the mental game. Who doesn't love a tip? However, unless we repeatedly revisit and apply them, they will remain tips, and information we know but cannot apply. Pick the tip that resonates best with you and apply it every time you play.
You'll soon appreciate the benefit.
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Some of the decisions golfers make on the course at times would strain a jury to believe possible unless made under some unknown duress. The sheer stupidity, of the player's choice of shot, really beggars belief.
This is almost the exclusive domain of the amateur or recreational golfer, which would be fine if it didn't appear to cause so much distress when the immediate abject failure of the shot become evident.
What can you do?.......
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At a critical moment in a match, playing poorly or hitting a shot that is just silly can be very demoralising and upsetting. We frequently fail in competition or coming down the stretch when the pressure is at its greatest. There are multiple reasons why this may be the case, but the outcome is the same we failed. What to do? I think we have to get success and failure in context. Still, more importantly, when we experience loss, we need to interpret the experience and use it to our advantage, not as a stick to beat ourselves endlessly.
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Is there anything good that comes out of getting mad, on the golf course, (or off the golf course for that matter)? I am firmly of the opinion that getting angry and upset is natural enough but allowing it to control our thoughts and actions is most definitely - going to mess us up.
We allways have a choice as to how we respond to upset - the secret is learning how to employ that choice to work for us and help us be our best.
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What do tour professionals have in common with the average club golfer? Not very much to be honest, and one thing they have in abundance is 'belief'. They put in the practice and believe they have the ability to make the shots down the stretch when under pressure. You never hear them say after a bad shot "Oh I just KNEW I was going to do that".
We need to lay within our comfort zone with a positive outlook and belief, this episode looks at a couple of things you can do to help that happen.
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We have all witnessed shots which are quite simply amazing, they take our breath away and almost cause us to rub our eyes in disbelief. More often than not they happen on television whilst watching a tournament (frequently a major). It is a popular question that golfers ask each other, and I too have been asked at many times I always give the same answer much to the surprise of those who asked me.
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If you ask the average golfer what they would like to achieve this year, chances are they will say they would like to play better golf, in fact, there is not a golfer alive who would not like to be better. So why are so few golfers becoming better? Many will invest in technology gimmicks, gadgets and the odd lesson but still, no change is there something we're missing and if there is what is it?
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This week I thought I would reflect upon the recent Open Championship at St Andrew's. Mainly because I want to take a closer look at Cameron Smith's putting approach from a mental point of view, plus because I picked him or Victor Hovland to win the tournament.
This hasn't promoted me to move to Las Vegas and become a bookmaker, but I do want to look at the factors I saw that I thought made them both good picks.
https://www.siegergolf.com/preland-page
The three questions I frequently get asked by listeners are the subject of this week's podcast.
Not much more to say really. Enjoy!!
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It's that time of year when the Open Championship rolls around and experts make their predictions as to who may win. Being played at St Andrew's adds a touch of legacy to the eventual winners' resume, so what does it take to lift the Claret Jug? In this episode I reflect on the course itself and some thoughts and reflections with my good friend and fellow golf nut Matt Barr from Salisbury NC - but don't go rushing to the bookies just yet as we haven't picked the winner yet..........or have we? :-)
https://www.siegergolf.com/preland-page
The professional tour has been thrown into turmoil by the emergence of the new Liv tour. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? In this week's podcast, I look at the potential upside and downside of the new tour and explore the possible consequences going forward of this new development.
Nothing stays the same. However, things usually evolve organically to a better and more efficient model than before. I am not sure what the outcome will be in the long term, but I reflect on some things to ponder in this week's podcast.
Though I suspect it is unnecessary, I should point out this is a wholly independent, unsponsored podcast, so I have no vested interest, and I'm only expressing my thoughts and opinions on this matter.
Is there any more wonderful shot to experience than the perfectly hit bunker shot? Equally, is there any shot which can cause more pain to one psyche than a solid thin up the face or quite simply just leaving the ball in the bunker?
The bunker shot has been called the only shot you can buy. Because it is all in the technique; therefore, everyone can learn the method and all men are equal in the bunker as they are on the putting green. However, I had an experience I wanted to share with you on this podcast which looks at the aspects of the bunker play which often we don't consider, and when we do consider and apply, can make a remarkable and immediate difference to our level of play.http://www.siegergolf.com
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One of the best investments you can ever make in life is to invest in yourself, or so popular business wisdom suggests. I would endorse that belief, and I would add that we should invest in ourselves when it comes to playing golf. Too often, golfers will spend their money on the newest club, the most expensive putters, and the latest golf balls in the hope that there will be a technological fix to get their game going in the right direction. There is, however, another area where investment will probably yield the best returns, but sadly it is overlooked time and time again.
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The US Open is like all the major tournaments an opportunity for us to get our crystal balls out, and try to pick our winners. As I am in America at the moment visiting friends I thought I would create an informal podcast, following an excellent discussion with a lifelong golf enthusiast and knowledgable analyst. So this short podcast we discuss the pressures - and each selects their top three picks to win, who will all be worth a bet.
http://www.siegergolf.com
The world of golf is full of articles, instruction videos and experts showing or telling you how to improve your game, but there is one tried and tested method which I think is available to all of us. It's less to do with active learning and more to do with absorption of information at an almost subconscious level. It also involves the individual's active engagement to concentrate for reasons they usually wouldn't. And though that may seem a little counterintuitive, when you listen to the podcast, you know exactly what I mean.
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In golf, match play involves more psychology than Strokeplay because not only are we playing the course, we are playing our opponent as well, and often as we seek to get a mental advantage over our opponent, but all too often, this backfires. We become not the challenger, but the challenged.
Some Tour Professionals are more famous for performing well in match play though they are not necessarily as successful in Strokeplay. I believe it is mental strength, attitude and a game plan which they stick to, - we can learn a lot from their approach.
https://www.siegergolf.com/preland-page
There are a few critical and obvious things that professional golfers do that amateur golfers do not do. I am not talking about breaking par regularly I am talking about pre-shot habits that we simply don't have, but if we were to have them I believe it would make an immediate and major difference.
Just as you cannot think your way to having a 6 pack, you cannot think your way to a better swing however with a combination of thinking and repetitive action we can embed fantastic positive habits that will serve us well
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The dreaded yips. It belongs to that list of words that golfers must never speak, Which include but are not limited to Shank Hook Thin Whiff Skull and Knife. There is an old saying, "Once you've got em, you've got em". Which has been an unspoken truth for many years. However, we know if we are honest with ourselves, that is not strictly true. I think people will likely give up or stop believing the yips can be fixed. They can be fixed!!
In this podcast, I take an overview of this subject and share one or two things you can do immediately, even if your yips are not confined to the green but are found with the short irons or even the driver.
http://www.siegergolf.com
Who is the greatest golfer of all time? How often has this question been discussed amongst friends experts pundits and wise people, I can't imagine.
There is no definitive answer to this question we can only express a point of view that we hold and try to justify it the same names generally come into the pot, but different names generally emerge. I was recently asked this question by a group of friends and it started a lively discussion I thought it would be worth my sharing my thoughts on this Evergreen question.
There are players who are incredibly exciting and entertaining who win a few tournaments but will never be listed amongst the greats of the game if we simply use frequency of winning or a number of Majors then that is as close as we can come to a scientific examination but it's never usually that simple, so I have no doubt some of you will agree with me and many of you will not but this light-hearted reflection just gives my thoughts on this question.
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When we do things without thinking and do them automatically the outcome is generally pretty good, however when we try too hard to control our level of performance we frequently get in our own way and inhibit our ability to execute because we have too many thoughts cluttering up our minds.
In a sense, it's like telling your friends a joke in the clubhouse and they all laugh very heartily, a few days later at someone's house one of your friends asks you to retell the joke. However now everything is different, you are self-conscious, self-aware and trying to tell the joke in a way that makes it funny as opposed to just telling the joke.
Golf is a game where, when we play with abandonment, without stress or indeed expectations we will more often than not perform at our best. The average amateur golfer plays golf for fun for professional golfers it's a job and therefore there are different dynamics in play, nevertheless, even professionals can experience those moments of abandonment when they play unconsciously and the results are plain for all to see - we too can do the same if we just follow a few simple guiding principles.
http://www.siegergolf.com
Closing a game when you have a lead is never as easy as it seems, especially to the player with the lead! There have been many recorded instances of players blowing a five-shot lead or a four up advantage not only in the professional ranks, but it happens All too frequently with the average club golfer. How do we get the job done? how do we close down a match or an Open Championship. Today's podcast looks at that question in detail and makes a few suggestions that will help us get it in perspective but more importantly understand what we can do to avoid self-sabotage
We all know that golf is a game, and we play games for fun. Yet, how many golfers don't have fun on the golf course!! I think the reason for that is because too often - golfers have unrealistic expectations, they often expect to be hitting shots like the professionals to hit perfect drives to make all the clutch putts and in so doing create unnecessary stress. What I call the Fear Factor in this podcast we explore that in some detail and look at strategies to help us manage it.
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Many people think that their mental strength "is what it is". There is nothing they can do to improve it and the more or less figure that's all there is to it. The reality is we can increase our capacity to perform at higher levels by developing our mental strength, which has been demonstrated scientifically to be achievable for all people. However, it does involve action on our part and not sitting passively and just telling herself to be mentally tougher. There are exercises and techniques we can use and the sooner we engage with them the faster we will see an improvement on the course.
https://www.siegergolf.com/buy-now
Golf would be a much more enjoyable game if there was no uncertainty. If we knew we could find the middle of every fairway, impart explosive backspin onto our wedges (just for show) and get out of any bunker with the effortless ease over feather floating in the sky.
Sadly, golf is an uncertain game, even at the highest level we never know exactly how the shot will turn out. We can mitigate much of the problems through technique and execution -but for the average golfer there is much to be gained from reducing the amount of uncertainty in our own game, this is not some pie in the sky concept but something which can be demonstrated. This week’s podcast explores uncertainty and looks at things we can do to mitigate it in our own game thereby playing better and enjoying ourselves more.
https://www.siegergolf.com/preland-page
How often have you been playing one of the best rounds of your life and with six holes to go you just know (almost as though you had psychic powers), you just know it's going to blow up. How often have you had a commanding lead in a match play game and you knew it wasn't enough!!! We have all been the victims of this self-sabotage mechanism, Why?
When we start defending a score or trying to defend our game it can all too often go horribly wrong -we see it and have experienced ourselves and seen it on the Tour.
One of the single biggest blocks to golfers getting better- is themselves and their belief that things are going to go wrong. This episode explores in detail what we can do to fix that and keep the good run going all the way to the final hole
The mental side of the game of golf is highly impacted by our 'habit' of thinking, or our mental approach to the game both on and off the course.
There are without doubt good habits, bad habits and sad t say downright ugly habits - in which camp are you. Chances are you'll think you are in the good camp. Sorry to say I doubt you will be quite as much as you may believe. The thing we need to do is identify the good habits, connect to them and make them our mental template going forward.
http://www.siegergolf.com
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Sometimes, for reasons best left to Sherlock Holmes to discover, our game abandons us. We fall into what is generally called a 'slump', our swing becomes a cross between a softball batter and a first-time lumberjack. On the greens, we can feel a sense of victory if we avoid a four-putt, and the fairway looks as narrow as the parting on a 1930s matinee idol's haircut. We play with a sense of gloom and despair and have to all intents and purposes have lost hope.
No one is immune, the causes are as plentiful as the victims and painful or frustrating as it feels - does not mean there is nothing we can do about it.
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We all have a Bogeyman. Or at least a dark thought that lurks within every golfer. a hole you cannot make par on, a club you just cannot hit, a shot you fear, a player who beats you every time. No matter how hard you 'try' the bogeyman haunts you, and history repeats itself once again.
It is not limited to amateurs many brilliant professionals cannot win a tournament or hold it coming down the stretch, why? Perhaps the reason is not as simple as you may imagine. But the solution certainly is.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Few shots cause more stress or pain than the dreaded four-foot putt. If for a birdie missing it is painful and a cause for misery, if for a par it becomes pressure-filled as we don't want a bogey as the result of such a short putt.
Is there a way we can improve our ability to manage deal with and overcome this approach and give ourselves the best chance to make these putt more and more often?
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
You will have heard of an athlete or golfer as being in the zone, where they perform with an almost otherworldly level of skill. The mystery is not that they are performing at an almost superhuman level but that they don't know how it came about.
Is there a formula, are there factors we can control that increase the probability of getting to and being in the zone. In this podcast I discuss and explore some commonalities it is good to be aware of.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
At one level the mental game of golf (and life) can appear as complex and unknown as Quantum Physics, yet at another level extraordinarily simple. So simple that it is missed and overlooked because it is obvious. In this podcast, I explore the one thing that above all I believe is the keystone of the mental game of golf (and life). Though simple in theory, putting it into practice is another thing altogether.
http://www.siegergolf.com
Very very few players (other than professionals and scratch players) practice with any purpose or regularity. The majority of amateurs go to the range and hit balls, all being well they will feel good about how they are swinging it and consider it a good session.
Practice is essential to enable us to develop good on course habits.
We can't recreate pressure on the range but we can establish an approach to each shot to give it 100% of our focus. If we do not incorporate that aspect into our practice sessions we are missing a really beneficial oppertunity.
http://www.siegergolf.com
If there is one keystone principle that is essential to managing your game from a mental perspective I believe it is this one in this podcast. Throughout my professional career people seem to hope there is a secret move, thought or technique that will be an instant fi to their golfing (and life) woes. There is not.
But there are critical principles that are to be found in every endeavour where we are seeking to be our best and perform at our highest possible level.
http://www.siegergolf.com
The mindset and motivation of players from the 1930' and 40's were I believe very different from today, with small purses, limited sponsorships and prize money only available for the top 10 or 15 places.
Some played for glory others money but the great champions Hogan, Nelson Snead were all able to stand above the pack - natural talent and a work ethic that would put most professionals to shame today played a huge part, but their mental approach was also a significant factor.
http://www.siegergolf.com
The bounceback factor is a constant indicator of better golfers. The players who make birdie after a bogey is one of the most revealing stats of the top 20 golfers in the world. Whatever level you you are at, the ability to let go of bad shots, to actively manage setbacks on the course, will help you get back to the right frame of mind to play your best golf.
http://www.siegergolf.com
With a NEw Year comes fresh hope and dreams of the best being realised. The eternal lament of the golfer "If I could only..........putt, chip, drive, relax, make birdies...." you know the speech. So why so often do our well-intentioned desires fail?
From my profesional expereince is is. due to having unconscious blocks (or beliefs) which we are not aware of, and subsequently, get stuck in habits that impede progress and hold us back.
This podcast explores this aspect and makes some very good recommendations.
As we look forward to what we want to achieve in our golf game next year, I imagine "Get Better" is top of the list regardless of your current level of play.
This week I look at three things to consider to best give yourself a realistic chance of making that positive change happen.
Additionally, amongst the packages on offer the Silent Mind Golf Platinum Package, is for professionals and teachers who want to work one to one with me. It sells for $1999
To kickstart your 2022 golfing intentions, however, this offer is available until the 6th Jan 2022, or until six people have signed up whichever comes first.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/opw6QYse?coupon_code=SMG2022PLAT
With the Platinum Package in addition to the online lessons you get
7 one-to-one Skype consultations with Robin during the 13 week period.
Unlimited e-mail contact with Robin for one year
Phone consultations on an as-required basis for One Year from the date of signing up.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
All things being equal you will experience a moment when it all goes spectacularly wrong, whilst cruising to an easy win, you somehow manage to play shots that not only defy belief but hand victory to your opponent. It happens, to the very best players in the world. What can you or more importantly should you do about it. In this podcast, Robin explores them with some practical advice.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Golf is not a thinking game, or is it? Robin explores his views on the role of thinking and golf. Specifically when we are playing and start trying too much and start getting in our own way.
Just as too many cooks spoil the broth as the saying goes...too many thoughts clutter the mind and lead to lack of focus.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
The key fundamentals of the mental game of golf, are the same as for our lives. Personally and professionally there are a few. key aspects which are critical to the development of a strong positive expectation filled self-image. As. golfers we commiserate, and get down on ourselves ten times more often than we encourage or lift ourselves. up. Why?
This podcast shines a light on this keystone fundamental aspect, with the knowledge and application, you will see the improvement.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
The Awesome Eight Challenge was created by myself and a friend; in Part 1 last week, I spoke about the world's Coldest, Lowest and Toughest courses. This week we explore The Highest, The Hottest, The Most Southern, The Most Northern and The Greatest (which I got very wrong).
Please sit back and enjoy my adventures globetrotting in search of the most Extreme Golf Courses.
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In 2001 with a friend who was a professional adventurer, I set off to play the eight most extreme golf courses in the world in under one calendar year. Finally, after much research and planning, we were ready to go. So, in December 2001, we set off for North America to tick off the first three courses from our challenge, The Lowest, The Coldest and The Most Difficult. In this two-part podcast, I share the experience of the first part of our adventure
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As this is the 50th podcast I thought I would share some thoughts and reflections about some background and the wider application of pressure in our lives.
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The simple act of slowing down is the single fastest-acting cure to tension and stress on the golf course. Too often the stress builds slowly and we are speeding up and 'trying too hard', when what we need to do is to take our foot off the accelerator.
This podcast explores the causes and the fixes we can employ to get back control.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Low expectations generally find their origins in a negative outlook - which is usually the result of past experience. However, think of your outlook like a lens through which you see and interpret the world. On the golf course in particular low expectations seem to be a common factor in those who perform poorly - and poor shots are generally met with a shrug of the shoulders and an exasperated shout of "I knew I was going to do that".
But guess what there is a much more simple fix than you have ever imagined.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
When our game deserts us in the middle of a match it is rather like being in a skid in a car when whatever you do appears to make no difference. Why?
Chances are you were not taught what to do and certainly never practiced what to do, the analogy is similar with golf - we need to BE PREPARED!! Like a boy scout. This podcast not only explores this idea but for the first time gives you an exercise you can do to prevent meltdown on the course, and in the supermarket queue as well!!
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
The notion of having a positive attitude is too simple a concept to be taken seriously. It sounds straight out of the Disney movie playbook. Yet research and studies have demonstrated that it does. On the golf course too many. p[layers are starting with a bad attitude and simply compounding the consequences of such an approach. Listen to Robin look at the facts and reflect on how we can and should embrace a positive attitude both on and off the golf course.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Too many golfers have rather dull, feeble and rather pointless practice swings. They've seen the pro's do it so think I'd better have a go at that. It's called a practice swing because that is exactly what it is - an opportunity to actually PRACTICE the shot you are about to take.
Why waste this opportunity! This podcast explores the major benefits one will gain from incorporating it into your pre-shot routine.
Plus it will settle tension and make for more consistent shots.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Blaming circumstances, the rules, our opponents, our star sign, or God, is not of any benefit to our being in the right space to play our best golf. Easy to do (which is why we do it so often) but in reality, it is a distraction that is negative and impedes up from playing our best golf.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
With the Ryder Cup around the corner, how do we manage a strategy in match play to give up our best chance of playing our best golf? Sadly there is no go-to solution but from my experience, there are some personal strategies that I believe can be the difference that makes the difference when the going gets tough.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Lack of preparation before we tee off is possible for the amateur golfer amongst the most common yet easily fixed problems I encounter. But who wants to warm up when there is golf to be played. If pilots, surgeons or actors went to their work with the same level of pre-performance preparation that the average amateur golfer display no one would fly - get operated on or go to the theatre :-)))
Food for thought plus a great way to save a few shots on every round.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Sometimes we get emotional overload, not just when we are angry, but also when we try too hard or get down on ourselves over a poor shot, or when our game does not match our expectations. It does us no favours the idea that you play better when you are 'mad' is amongst the dumbest things some golfers say.
This podcast has there instant on-course tips you can apply in any situation where you feel the emotional state is getting out of control.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
I find there is ofter a huge amount of wisdom and instruction contained within a quotation. Today being the 40th Podcast I thought I would share a few of my favourite golf quotations. Though there are hundreds I have chosen these as they relate to our relationship with golf (or my relationship with golf anyway)
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We all know universally that a red light means Stop, Danger, Do Not Pass Go. It brings our attention to the fact that we need to be exercise caution. Equally, we know that 'getting the green light ' means Go, All is Safe, Proceed.
In golf on the course, we need to make sure we are not making decisions with the Red Light shining in our minds (or the Red Mist to be more exact), as it impairs our ability to perform to our best. The faster we can turn red to green the better. Find out more.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Today I share the 5 questions I most commonly get asked when people discover I am involved in coaching and writing about the Mental Game of golf. Chances are if we met you may ask me one of the five, but if you didn't then you are welcome to send in a question to robin@siegergolf.com and I will answer it (if I can) on a future podcast
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Nerves we all get them, but how we manage them will determine how we deal with them. Too often players try to either ignore (bad option), think their way out of it (impossible) or simple beat themselves up for being "weak" - (dumb).
This weeks episode is all about how to understand the function of nerves accept and make friends with them - as you'll understand it can help you to focus on the task at hand, and not over think the nerves themselves.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
The single least utilised aspect of improvement is the lack of meaningful practice on the range. I imagine that on average 95% of people at the range are simply hitting balls in the hope that they hit a good shot. Usually without any clues as to why or how that happened :-))
Practising with intent and purpose will reward the diligent player, who hits 20 balls in 30 minutes rather than 100 in haste and without real thought.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
What is the X Factor that the very best golfers have, what is their secret sauce? Though they may differ in background, temperament and approach to the game, the one thing they all have in abundance is confidence in their ability to win. They believe. They believe that have what it takes, they believe that coming down the stretch they will prevail. We amateur golfers would do well to believe in ourselves just a little more, to adopt a more positive approach to how we think about what we can do.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Pressure always needs an outlet or it will simply find a weak spot to burst through. This is basic science for materials but within the mental game to we need not only to manage the pressure but to find a method technique or fix to stop it building up to a point where it overwhelms. Today podcast explores exactly what strategies you can employ - to create your very own safety valve.
http://www.siegergolf.com
The notion that the mental game is a modern study is both erroneous and quite simply bonkers. However, very few players of the past wrote much or articulated their approach to the mental game. One who fortunately did is the 6-time Open Champion, Harry Vardon.
One bit of his advice he shares I think is the single best tip for golfers of all levels and until I read it, I had never heard a teacher /writer /coach or player mention it. When you hear it I hope it has the same impact on you. Quite Brilliant.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Pressure in golf exists, but it is self-created and not in the least life-threatening. If it were life-threatening in the way that emergencies in skydiving are, especially when you are falling at 120 mph with a failed main parachute and 13 seconds left to live, then you make sure you do have Emergency Procedures to save your life.
Creating strategies of the course to help you deal with emergencies on the course I believe is the single most overlooked weapon players should be developing.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
There is a paradox in golf that the less we try to control the swing, the process the actions surrounding the actual playing of the game, the better we often play. Too often we play at a level of Conscious Incompetance, rather than Unconscious Excellence.
It is a rather elusive position but we regularly get to it almost in an instant in the most improbable of circumstances.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Technology has many benefits for the average golfer, but it is no substitute for confidence. How do you build confidence? Amongst many methods available, for golfers, I encourage improvisation and imagination. Think Jazz, think different think magic think outside the box, become the architect of your own brilliance. .... you got the idea, now listen to the podcast.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Putting is an art a science and a bit of a mystery to most of us. We can one day play like an inspired wizard of the green, the next day like a beginner of a municipal pitch and putt course. IS there a secret? In truth probably not but there are factors we are often unaware of, that can help us. Robin explores in this weeks episode.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Most players when asked which one shot would they most like to take again - chose a bad shot. Ever wondered why?
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Being in the moment - stilling your mind of all thoughts - both negative and positive is the ideal state of mind. To function instinctively, intuitively and automatically without fear thought or worry. Is such a rare thing that no player can turn it on and off. When it happens it is almost by accident, players know they are - 'in the zone' - but not sure how they got there. This podcast explores that in more detail and offers suggestions to help you.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
Too often we are the victims of self-sabotage, we become our own harshest critic more often
than not while we are on the course and about to take a shot. There is another way......
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
So often when I meet golfers, they ask me for a tip they can use immediately and see results. Today I share that tip plus as it is the 25th Podcast I am making a one-time amazing offer to 25 listeners of the podcast. Listen for details.
https://www.siegergolf.com/offers/BaAEYBog/checkout
With the first Major of the year played, Robin Sieger reflects on his analysis of the players performance both mechanically and mentally.
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Robin and David talk golf with analysis and discussion on what makes the 'greats' stand out from the others. What we can learn from them, whilst dispelling a few myths along the way.
David began his career in golf on the European and South African Tours. He soon realized his interest was in the technique, mechanics, and intricacies of the game, which eventually led him to spend more time teaching than playing. Soon after David’s retirement from playing, he began to incorporate his methods and philosophies into a stringent, holistic training program for qualified instructors that remains unmatched even today. David has coached players to over 25 Major Championship titles and over 150 individual worldwide tournament victories. Four of those players have even held first place in the Official World Golf Ranking. With a desire to bring that same world-class instruction to players of all ages and abilities, and in addition to the numerous articles written for publications like Golf Digest and Golf International over the past three decades, David has authored seven books on the topic.
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Robin talks about his thoughts on who will win this year's Masters based on their mental strengths and weaknesses. An informal reflection based on their past wins and losses.
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The great champions have learned to master pressure at critical moments in a competition, with unshakable self-confidence. This was not simply a matter of good fortune or luck rather they learnt how to be in control of what they could control - their thinking and their swing. One of the best examples is Severiano Ballesteros, a self-taught golfer who turned pro at 16 years of age and was driven to win, This podcast looks at his mindset and the training he did off the course to strengthen his mental capacity for golf.
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What is the difference that makes the difference, when it comes to those who win frequently and those equally gifted players who stumble, in the crucible of competition. Tom Watson famously said, "the person I most fear coming down the stretch is myself". This podcast looks at one unique quality winners have in common in all sports and walks of life.
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Robin looks at the lack of meaningful focus as being a primary fault in the average golfer. What happens too often is we focus on where do not want the ball to go rather than where we do want the ball to go. It's not just a concept - it is scientifically demonstrable through neuroscience "We move in the direction of our dominant thought", chances are when do you focus it's on the negative.
Learn why this is an essential and imperative lesson we learn and apply
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As a mental game researcher, author of three books and coach. When I meet golfers socially the most common question I get asked is "Can you give me a quick fix"? Everyone wants a tip or thought to help them experience instant improvement. If only it were that simple. However, in this week's podcast, I share the three best quick fixes I believe you can employ to help you see immediate improvement.
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Robin is in conversation with Paolo Quirici who turned professional and went onto the European PGA Tour in 1989 and remained a tour Pro for 12 years. A lifelong student of the game he has become a highly respected and in-demand teacher based at the Lugano Golf Academy.
Robin and Paolo have spent many days together talking about the factors which turned ordinary players into extraordinary players. The importance of the mind as well as other aspects which most amateurs overlook or are not aware they need to be doing.
His love of the game saw him take up Hickory Golf where he went on to become the World Champion in 2012, and the US Open Hickory Championship in 2013 and 2014.
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Putting is easy, or at least it is supposed to be. In the moments leading up to a putt there are a few things we can apply that will give us a better mindset, keep us more relaxed and in a more positive space.
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Putting is simple, or at least it should be. However, it is quite remarkable how much and how often we successfully self-sabotage ourselves - by adopting low expectations and programming the subconscious mind to work against up rather than for us.
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It is amazing how many excuses golfers have come up with to explain why they are poor or even bad putters. This allows them to somehow let themselves off the hook when it comes to making real and lasting change and gives immediate steps we can take to improve our putting game.
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Without a doubt, confidence and putting go hand in hand. You lose one and it's a sure bet you'll lose the other. Sadly too many golfers simply despair of ever getting better, they see a slump in their putting as evidence their game is in terminal decline. It's crazy!! Every golfer goes through a slump in an area of the game they were previously good at. Why? Who cares, the important thing is to get back to where you were in terms of confidence and performance, and the good news, you can.
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When we have a nightmare on the golf course and go from swinging the club to impersonating a lumberjack chopping wood, we know something has gone very wrong. But what can we do about it? Some players give up the game others battle on in ever-widening circles of despair.
The key to dealing with this situation is not so much about what is happening rather what we can do about it. Learn some tips and advice on this matter.
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The mysterious 'zone' where the game comes easy and perfection is the norm. This state of what psychologists refer to as optimal flow happens more by chance than design. But understanding the aspects which increase its likelihood can only be a good thing. This is not to suggest we can turn it on and off, sadly that is not possible, but the conditions where it can happen are good to know.
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It is not possible to be relaxed and play golf at the same time according to Ben Hogan when asked if he was relaxed when he played. All competition creates stress, however, if we can learn to apply relaxation techniques on the course when we feel the stress building, it can only help. Techniques learnt from the course can be applied with instant results on the course.
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What are the two most important and influential shots in every round? When we understand the importance of these shots and learn how to give ourselves our best opportunity to hit them to the best of our ability, we give our confidence a huge boost and settle into our groove more quickly.
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Do you practice? Really practice or simply go to the range to hit balls loosen up and see how far you can wallop your driver. Very very few golfers outside of the professional and elite amateur ranks practice with any sense of purpose. Ironically it is often detrimental to our improvement if we do not have focus and structure to all and any practice sessions.
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There is an old saying 'your attitude and aptitude determine your altitude' It is estimated that 80 % of the skills we require to be successful in life are attitude based skills. Often however our attitude is at odds with our desire, so we subconsciously sabotage ourselves. Learn how we can turn that around in an instant.
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Most golfers on the course talk to themselves, more often than not it is in the negative form both before and more frequently after a poor shot. Too often expectations are way above ability which in turn leads to frustration disappointment and anger. Imagine if you could change the script? Positive self-talk actually works, learn how and why.
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The angry golfer is never better for it. If we cannot control our anger what chance do we have of controlling our swing, our mood and our self-control? Every golfer experiences anger now and again some more than others but unless you learn to harness the emotion and control it, it will control you and does not lead to on-course improvement.
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Putting is the one area of the game where we are all equal. It is not about strength or equipment, rather it is about confidence, self-belief and quiet calm. Too many golfers give themselves a hard time after a missed putt, whilst missing the one crucial statistic common to all good putters.
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Golf under pressure is the place where most golfers will experience the dreaded 'choke', a moment when their nerves or physical tension will overrule their conscious mind. It is not always avoidable but there is a lot we can do to negate its frequency.
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The 80-20 rule is one of the most overlooked aspects of the mental game and its impact on how we play, and how we can improve the quality of our play and enjoyment.
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The Golfing Mind podcast is hosted by Robin Sieger. The best selling author and recognised authority on peak performance and motivation. As a speaker, he has in the past 20 years spoken internationally to many of the worlds largest organisations at their conferences. sharing his understanding of the age-old question "why do winners, win?"
In 2014 he wrote the first of three books on the mental game of golf Silent Mind Golf, which took a practical look at the mental game from the approach of helping the player to understand the process and then learn techniques and practices to help them better master the mental game. Seeing immediate improvement in their game. His teaching is suitable for players of all levels, from beginner to PGA Tour Professional.
http://www.siegergolf.com