Stress before rounds

[HookEmHorns]

Yesterday I got paired with complete strangers and I actually played my best round of golf this year and possibly my best round during my short history of playing. I really get nervous when I'm playing around people I don't know and if there are people behind me I can't stand holding them up so I usually have to let them play through, no matter how long that may take... I guess when I'm with my friends I try to show off or play like I know what I'm doing or something. haha.

[max power]

For me, I can't sleep before a round because I am so exicted and happy to play!! I'm playing this Saturday which is only two sleeps away!! LOL...

Got me cracking up here on the couch with the phrase "two sleeps"-makes me think of Bret and Jemaine on FOTC.

[Zeph]

Could be your way of focusing and getting ready. I feel a bit tension on the first couple of holes, but never any stress or anxiety before a round.

I would recommend you try playing in tournaments and just play more. Make a round of golf a casual thing that is as natural as going to work or school. With that mindset, you can relax more.

[WUTiger]

John,

Sounds like you may be having trouble with "if only...."

* If only I could go to the range one more time a week, I could play better.
* If only I could get a new sand wedge, I could play better.
* If only I can escape No. 18 with a bogie, I could break 80.

Life is busy, and we wish we could spend more time on golf. But we can't. This can cause pressure to "play super" the next round, and the next...

So, go for little things like playing 36 holes a couple of times each summer. And have fun (it's permitted! )

[john]

John,

I actually hit about 50-100 balls a day and I play 36 holes a week. :) I think that I dropped my handicap so much in the last year that I just dont have that confidence yet. I have a feeling that once I get more low rounds under my belt my stress will get better.