Well that’s some statement . . . but what if it’s true?
As the 2016 Masters approach, if Lee Westwood is a good enough player to win a major but has found it a challenge to play his best just when he needs to, the problem is often in the mental side of the game. Now this of course is common knowledge with elite performers in any sport – especially golf!
I am sure many top golfers have sports psychologists as part of their team- Lee included- and their job is to help their players become mentally tough under pressure.
What can I offer? How can I help?
Some top athletes and players use all that conventional sports science has to offer but still struggle at times under pressure, at the crucial moment self-doubt and anxiety will make their muscles tighten, this will affect rhythm, timing and confidence.
The self-doubt and anxiety is often triggered by the subconscious- the memory of a past bad experience, the pressure of a great opportunity, the inability to stop the negative chatter buzzing around in your head.
Conventional sports psychology is aware of the destructive power of the subconscious but is often unable to deal with the effects of the body’s fight or flight response to stress.
This is a job for Superman!!
The old Marvel comic fan in me couldn’t resist the link!
Not quite Superman (talk about state the obvious), however the way this revolutionary technique I use can free people from their fears often makes them feel they are ready to fly!
How would I work with Lee?
Three key areas
1. The Past
I can help take the negative power out of any past bad experience i.e. any time he was in a strong position and faltered because of self-doubt, anxiety.
2. The Future
During a session I would ask Lee to imagine it was the last day of a major and pick a scenario where he feels he is in a great position, but is beginning to feel the pressure. For example: two shots ahead with two holes to play. We would use tapping to settle any negative self-talk and release any tension in the body. When his mind was clearer and he felt calmer and more confident we would use positive affirmations on how he would like to play.
3. The Present
When Lee is actually on the course, at any stage when playing if he feels the nerves are building I will show him subtle tapping points he can use at any time that send calming messages to the brain. This instantly will release any fear and stress in the body and enable him to focus, stay in the moment and play his best.
Just as kryptonite is the one thing that can strip Superman of his power, nerves can have the same affect on a top sportsman. The difference is however, there is no antidote for Superman when crippled by kryptonite – although he seems to be still going strong today! For sportsmen, when the nerves strike there is EFT and me!
It’s a tough one making comparisons with a superhero, I suppose I look a little more like a distant cousin of Clark Kent- well I wear glasses at least and before I lost my hair I could fashion a mean quiff!!
So, can I guarantee that if I worked with Lee Westwood that he will win a major?
No, but I can guarantee that with my help he will be able to, under pressure, consistently play his best- of course if he has the talent and is free to play to his potential he will win a major.
Over to you Lee if you’re reading this what do you think? Would you like my help? I am sure playing in a major tournament he’ll be checking out blogs . . . but, lets see how he gets on and if he falters . . . ?
And of course any other golfers out there who can relate to the scenario above, what have been your experiences? I would welcome your feedback. Also,anyone who feels that what I have to offer may help them play their best under pressure, just get in touch. Leave a comment or contact me at sean@confidenceontap.com for a free 15 minute consultation.
other related articles:
How to access the zone . . .at will!
Golfer freed from the demons in his game – live on radio
Is there finally a cure for yips?