Wicked Smart Golf 451: Michael Leonard - Overcoming Pressure and Slumps for Consistent Golf
Dec 9, 2025
Michael Leonard, a full-time golf writer and mental golf coach, discusses how to overcome pressure and slumps for consistent play. He emphasizes the importance of building a highlight reel for confidence and provides strategies to manage expectations in tournament vs. casual settings. Michael shares insights on the eight-second pre-shot rule, the power of mindful routines, and how emotional patterns affect performance. Plus, he reveals how documenting your rounds can be a game-changer in improving skills.
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Mental Game Sparked By One College Meltdown
- Michael Leonard realized mental game mattered after a college tryout meltdown and years of frustration on course.
- That moment shifted him toward studying mindset, routines, and course management instead of chasing perfect swings.
Count And Cut Negative Self-Talk
- Track and count your negative self-talk during rounds to expose damaging patterns quickly.
- Reduce those remarks and your scores and enjoyment will naturally improve.
TV Highlights Warp Expectations
- TV golf creates a false expectation because it shows only highlight shots and recoveries.
- Understanding real tour and amateur stats resets expectations and reduces self-blame on the course.
