Is there enough value in your game?

[Andy M]

Usually when people hear the word ‘value’, it can be in connection with money, cost, investment or outlay. But what if I suggested it was about worth, commitment, discipline or challenge?

Here’s the thing- I would offer you the suggestion that if you’re not getting enough value out of your game, it may well be because your values aren’t been catered for, or at the very least , been recognised and given a space. The value on a new driver can be measured externally at $200 but what about the internal value? What does that driver give you ‘inside’?

Maybe it gives you a sense of reassurance, that your game will be better once you hit it consistently straighter. Maybe you’ll experience more challenge as your game is lifted to a higher level. Or perhaps a greater sense of freedom, knowing those long par fours are now in range. Sticking to our chosen club maker ticks our loyalty box.
We all have internal values which are not there by chance. In what order we stack our preferences determines the value we put on things. When we don’t make space for those values at the top of the list, it can feel that ‘something’ is missing, that our game doesn’t ring true or it just doesn’t look right. Do you ever get the sense you’re playing with the handbrake stuck on?

If you were told that by tomorrow, you’d never play golf again, what 3 things would you MOST miss? Take some time to reflect on the values that are really important to you in your life generally. What inspires you to take action?
Right down a list of YOUR values, not someone else’s and ask yourself if they are carried high enough in your golf game. Only when the highest values are being served will you experience the true you on the golf course.
And so, do you really have enough ‘value’ in your game?

[John Graham]

Andy,

Thanks for this post. Somehow I missed it when posted, but as I read it now it is taking me some time to digest. I think it is right on and should be addressed by all. For me, the three things I would miss are the sunlight, the challenge and the sound of the ball clanking around inside the cup. Man, I love that sound.

I haven't put much time into my competitive golf in the last few years because of fear. I don't feel like I practice enough or with enough intensity to be properly prepared for competition. Granted, it is a choice I've made and I have to live with that.

I'm quite grateful that Andy has taken some of his own time to try and help those on this forum. I have been around to many online forums and I have yet to see someone of Andy's knowledge advising people on the mental game.

Listen to him and subscribe to his post. Follow him on twitter @amgolfmindcoach and see his site for a free report. http://www.progolfmindcoach.co.uk/