Playing golf is hard. Not because striking the ball is difficult but because our brains get in the way.
I came up with a formula for which I think every shot should be played. T + A + D = OI.
Target + Assessment + Decision = Objective Intent
That all sounds very fancy but it isn’t. I’m all about making the game of golf simpler. So, let me explain.
TARGET: What is your target for this shot? It could be the flag stick. It could be a tree or a cloud in the distance. Be specific with this. “My target is the fairway,” probably isn’t specific enough. Try something like, “My target is the right side of the bushy yellow tree behind the green.” See it in your mind.
ASSESSMENT: How is the ball sitting? What are the conditions? Will the golf ball bounce? Can I play a normal old shot here?
DECISION: This boils down to how will YOU get the golf ball to the target given your assessment. Not, “I hope,” or “maybe.” The decision is, “this is how it’s going to be!”
OBJECTIVE INTENT: Once that is all planted firmly in your brain you have Objective Intent. Your intention using the tools available is now the focus and you can swing freely. Swinging freely with any club too. Note, it is not subjective. The Intent is an objective decision for YOU. It isn’t because your playing partner might have done something different.
I hope that makes sense. Let’s start using good language and assessment skills and play better shots!
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