TIP OF THE WEEK

AT the elite end of the spectrum, statistics play a big role in how you evaluate your performance and map how you can improve.

Here is a stat from the tour that may surprise you.

If you can average seven out of 10 across all the categories that are recorded, you will be the No.1 player in the world. This is true for both the men and women.

I continually come across club golfers who have standards in their heads that are completely out of kilter with what is possible.

I have said before, golf is a very inconsistent game in its nature. Achieving perfection is something that is not going to happen very often.

If the best players in the world are not achieving seven out of 10 across the board, then what is a fair result for someone who plays off a handicap of 18?

My point here is, golfers mostly play in a negative state of mind because their standards are set too high.

It’s hard to do anything well in a negative state of mind, let alone play golf.

So, I want you to understand that you are going to hit a lot of bad shots.

But you can’t let it get you down or get you angry.

If seven out of 10 is elite for golf, then you need to adjust your expectations so you can maintain a reasonable head space.

You will also hit individual shots that you would score a seven out of 10.

These shots won’t be as satisfying as your best ones but you must give them a tick and be happy with them because that is the reality of golf.

Embrace seven out of 10 and watch how your attitude will improve – and then your performance.