Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
It only takes a closer look at the world's top golf professionals to find that they not only spend a lot of time working with a coach on their technique but equally spend time working with a sport psychologist on their mental game.
It is the combination of both of these factors that really has raised the bar in golfing performance in recent years.
There is no better example of this than Padraig Harrington who, with his back-to-back major wins, has raised his game from a good golfer to a truly great one with the help of well-known golf psychologist Dr Bob Rotella.
Have a look at my chart of the four golfing types. You should find one of them has all the hallmarks of your game.
(1) Untrained swing; Untrained brain
(2) Trained swing; Untrained brain
(3) Untrained swing; Trained brain
(4) Trained swing; Trained brain
Golfer 1: Is the complete beginner who has no technical ability but is also mentally untrained and would feel vulnerable on the golf course.
Golfer 2: Has worked on their game and had lessons making them technically strong, hitting the ball well in practice but, when under pressure, that grooved swing seems to fall apart. They won't fulfil their potential until they address some mental aspects.
Golfer 3: Will be like someone you know - without having the prettiest game they usually come out on top. With an unorthodox technique, they are mentally strong and are making the most of their ability. However, there is a limit to what they can achieve without better technique.
Golfer 4: Is the ultimate player with great technique and in control of their thoughts and emotions on the course. An obvious example would be Tiger Woods. With a lot of work on both physical technique and mental strength, anyone can work towards becoming more like Golfer 4 and reach their full potential.
Over the coming months I will show you some simple tips and techniques to help you become a 'trained brain'.
