Golf Is Not A Game Of Perfect by Bob Rotella

I’m currently reading another book by well respected sports psychologist, Bob Rotella,  Golf Is Not A Game Of Perfect.

In Chapter 9: Let The Short Game Flow, Rotella places similar importance on routines and clearing the mind of any distractions in the same way as for other parts of the game.  But helping me make my short game better is Rotella’s focus on three words - trust, feel and confidence.

Like many aspects of psychology, when I read it I can’t help thinking it is nothing more than common sense.  But to read it and then keep it in mind the next time I find myself around the green with a wedge & putter to make an impressive par, is when I really appreciate how simple Rotella keeps his writing.

Rotella suggests any golf pro should be thinking of getting the ball in the hole, not near the pin, from 180 yards.  For an amateur he suggests the yardage to be more like 60 - 90 depending on the handicap.

Most important he suggests is, when you find yourself around the edge of the green with a wedge in hand, you will need to losen your grip and feel the shot.  Take more practice shots and when it feels right, trust your judgment and be confident of your ability to succeed.

Rotella states that the majority of my shots as a high handicapper are going to be made on or around the green, so it makes perfect sense to me when he says I should spend 70% of my practising with my short irons, wedges & putter.

If the three driving ranges I frequent are anything to go by, I meet very few golfers on the chipping green, putting greens and practising over or out of the bunker.  Most are trying to hit the back fence with the oversized drivers!