— Focus on the match you’re in, as it’s the only one you can play. Don’t stress about what is happening in other matches or ponder who you might play next. Somebody will be there waiting for you.
— If you’re losing big, slow everything down. Within the rules, of course. Remind yourself there are plenty of holes left to be played. The tendency under pressure is to rush, so breathe deeply, walk leisurely and swing with terrific tempo.
— Play with purpose and passion. Enjoy each moment, because this is where you want to be. Don’t worry about losing — nobody dies. So, get caught up in the fun of making confident swings to precise targets.
One last thought: Every putt is yours to make!
Jim Afremow, Ph.D., is a sports psychology expert and the author of “The Champion’s Mind: How Great Athletes Think, Train, and Thrive.” Follow him on Twitter @goldmedalmind.
