Thoughts and words have the power to shape what you experience. While playing golf, what you experience as a consequence of your thoughts is immediate. When you think and believe you can or can't do something, you either pave your way to success, or erect a mental road block to impede your performance. Mental road blocks only serve to increase the games degree of difficulty. I do, however, have a suggestion that will save you a lot of strokes.

The next time you plan a shot, call it in your mind. Describe consciously what you intend to do. This is not unlike calling a shot in a game of billiards. This simple action intensifies your awareness and focus. As you read the green, describe the putt you want to make in your mind and see yourself doing what you are thinking. One of the most rewarding benefits of this exercise is that it automatically places your thoughts and creative energies in the present moment, shaping the outcome.

The mental process you are using to state your intentions is called self-talk. Self-talk is what you think and say about yourself, both in your mind and out loud to others. Its influence on your game should never be underestimated. Using self-talk that describes the results you seek, as opposed to those you don't, engages your mind and body to work towards the same purpose.

I am sure you have heard someone say that that game of golf is mostly mental. Well, it most certainly is. The problem lies in the fact that most people don't have a clue as to when they are mentally sabotaging their efforts. Amateurs stand on the tee box thinking and talking about everything that can possibly go wrong, while professionals keep their minds clearly focused on the results they are looking for. This is one area where you can be every bit as good as a professional.

Another benefit of calling your shot is that it inspires trust in you and your abilities. This new found trust will open another dimension to the game.

Begin using this mental process on the range and putting green, and give yourself time to effectively integrate it into your game. The habit you create and the results you experience will be well worth your effort.