Demystifying Mental Toughness

257 Should I Change My Pre-Shot Routine To Get Better

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Episode notes

In episode 257 of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, David discusses pre-shot routines in sport. With an emphasis on golf, and the importance of a personalised routine to enhance performance. Key elements include the decision making process, assessing one's state of mind, taking practice swings in a purposeful way, visualizing the shot, focusing on the target, focusing your attention ahead of execution and the use of trigger words.

Key Learning Points:

Write down key steps of your personal pre-shot routine to improve your understanding.
Routines need practice and rehearsal if you are going to take them into competitive environments successfully.
Using trigger words that direct your attention towards timing can be beneficial like "smooth swing", "commit" or “trust” to enhance focus.
As humans we can get comfortable quickly therefore adjusting your approach from time to time is important to guard against complacency and to improve focus
The approach discussed is applicable to various sports, not just golf.

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To Listen to Golf Related Podcasts

Ep017: Gio Valiante - How to Play Fearless Golf

Ep101: Compilation – 25 Mental Game Secrets to Improve Your Golf

Ep118: Dr Bob Winters – How to Help Golfers Overcome their Mental Game Challenges

To Listen to Other Podcasts to Help You Improve Your Decision Making

Ep254: David Charlton - How Can I Perform Better More Consistently?

Ep250: Ruth Chiles and Alessia Bruno – Optimising Your Potential By Understanding Your Nervous System Better

Ep210: Anna Parker-Naples – Why Breathwork is so Powerful

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