Big round, how to chill

[JimmyDoesGolf]

Hi all,

I have been hitting really well on the range and putting green recently, and am fairly confident at scoring well in the tournament this weekend, however I don't want to get too cocky about it. I also don't want to put myself under too much pressure.

Does anyone know any techniques for relieving the pressure and simply chilling out and not getting too worked up about the game?

Cheers,
James

[Q.Q.Quillume]

One thing I do is tell myself it's just another "regular" round and try to play as if that's the case.

Another is I tell myself the other players (or my opponent if it's match play) are just as nervous - or more so - than I am.

[case31]

For me, the thing I have to watch for during tournament play is getting fast. I have a tendency to swing fast, not spend as much time as I should reading putts, gauging distance on chips, etc. To fight that, I will tell myself "slow...slow...slow" as I set up to the ball. Sometimes I'll even say it out loud. Playing partners probably think I'm crazy when I do this, but I'd rather take that and a good score than have them watch me kick the ball all over the golf course.

[traviswise]

Slow play is my friend as well. I play so much better when just taking my time with every shot no matter how big/small.

[tjy355]

Hi all,

Peacefully chant your relaxation mantra during the round...

"SERENITY NOW!!!!"

[zeg]

Does anyone know any techniques for relieving the pressure and simply chilling out and not getting too worked up about the game?

See the thread about drinking while golfing. Seems to be the standard solution.

[HR Golf]

What I do when I play in tournaments is pretend as if I'm playing a regular round with my friends.
Also, if I do get nervous and whiff a shot I just keep in mind that as long as it it is in bounds I'll be able to play it better the next time.
Just find something to think about walking to your ball, whether it be something that motivates you or just trying not to think at all.

[Wisconsin Golfer]

I know it seems silly, however when I am under pressure, I just start the "CINDERELLA STORY" sequence from CADDYSHACK. In my head of course.