Plan it......then let it go!

I am often asked whether or not the golf swing should be a mechanical, systematic process, or if it is something we should just let go. When talking about our swings, and our games in particular, it is important that we look at the entire picture. Good golf is a process, not just ones ability to make a good swing. And processes are judged by results, which is ultimately what we want to see improve in ourselves.

When we play the game, I like to break-down each shot into two parts. These two parts ARE distinct and separate from each other, and BOTH need to be present regularly to realize the results you are looking for.

PART ONE is the planning process, or the systematic, "forced" part of the game. This is where we get up to our ball, examine the lie, the shot at hand, the wind, distance, elevation, etc. This is also where we stand behind the ball and visualize where and how it is we want our shot to go, and ultimately where we make our decision how to play the shot. Finally, it is where we take our stance, line up, and be sure we are ready to go. It is all the planning right up to.....

PART TWO - the execution of the shot. Once you have made the decision you are set to go, you have in mind the shot, and you are correctly lined up, it is time to forget about all of that. Your feet are in place - they are not going anywhere. Your body is lined up - it won't move away either. The club won't change. The wind may, but you have no control over it so no need to try. Besides, you anticipated it and have adjusted accordingly. ALL OF THE THINKING AND PLANNING IS OVER, IT IS TIME TO HIT THE SHOT. Here is where you rely on that good image you put in your head during Step 1 and allow your body to do the work it is capable of. Get out of its way and let it work. When we are truly able to let it go like this, the game is as much fun as it will ever be. Theses are the rounds we remember, and the results usually speak for themselves.

So like the title says, "Plan it....then let it go!" Take your time. Plan and commit to the shot. Set up, line up, and then forget about it. Let the rest happen. Keep it simple by remembering there are only TWO STEPS. Turn on the brain, then turn it off, and let your natural ability take over. THIS IS GREAT GOLF!