Not knowing how to deal with nerves when you are playing can certainly cause you to hit poor shots and higher scores. The good news is that learning to visualize positive outcomes for your shots before your round and as part of your pre-shot routine can really help you reduce your nerves.

The shot I have in this video is a long iron over water. This certainly can cause tension and nerves for some people. What I want you to do first is visualize a positive outcome for the shot you have before you play it. Visualization may take some practice to master, but I believe it is essential to being able to play good golf.

The best thing to do is incorporate visualization into your pre-shot routine.

Prior to hitting I stand back behind the ball and visualize every aspect of my shot: the sound, the shot shape, where it will land and how it will react on the ground. I then go through the rest of my pre-shot routine while continuing to see that shot in my head.

My Pre-Shot Process Including Visualization

First I stand back from the ball and picture my shot flying through the air in exactly the shape that I want. In my mind, I see where it’s going to land on the green and then I go through my pre-shot routine the same way every time.

I take two warm-up practice swings behind the ball.

Then I stand back and visualize my shot, step into it, look at that target one more time, and then go ahead and hit my shot.

No doubt about it. If you build and stick to your own pre-shot routine and as part of that, you visualize positive outcomes, you are going to hit better golf shots every time.

Another easy way to use visualization is to close your eyes when you are relaxing at home and play your usual course, or a course you know well, in your head. Visualize each shot and practice seeing GOOD shots. I know that this sounds a bit crazy, but this mental rehearsal exercise will definitely help you play better golf.

Add visualization to your toolbox you will see your scores improve!