Wicked Smart Golf

Tournament golf is NOTHING like a normal round of golf with your friends. The journey from an amateur player to a skilled tournament golfer is often paved with challenges, dedication, and strategic insights. If you want to compete at the highest level, Mike Booker's book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," has emerged as a guiding light. After reading it I instantly reached out to get Mike on the podcast. Despite being a golf writer and playing in hundreds of days of tournaments myself I learned so much from his book. For those of you that don't know, Mike Booker is a revered name in the golf community, known for his remarkable achievements as a tournament golfer. As mentioned on his website, "Mike Booker is well known in Texas amateur golf and beyond. He has won a record number of Texas Golf Association events and multiple Texas Player of the Year distinctions. In 2019, he was inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, joining the likes of Jackie Burke and Ben Hogan. " With years of experience and a passion for the game, he has not only found success but also love sharing his knowledge with others. As a player who has triumphed over numerous challenges and competed in prestigious tournaments, his insights carry immense weight and credibility. His book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" serves as a comprehensive guide for golfers aiming to excel in tournament play. From novices seeking to break into the competitive circuit to seasoned players looking to enhance their performance, this playbook caters to all skill levels. Within the pages of "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," you will learn so much to help play better under pressure. You will learn: The two types of tournament golfers A powerful on course breathing technique Why a pre-shot routine can help you get in the zone The shocking reason you should NEVER try to "make" putts And so much more. "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" by Mike Booker is an essential resource for anyone aspiring to become a successful tournament golfer. Think of it as a guide that unlocks the secrets of tournament golf. By delving into the pages of this invaluable book, any type of golfer can learn how to perform under pressure. Grab a copy of his book now on Amazon. How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Laying up is a LOSING strategy - despite being sage advice. Simply put, when you hit it closer to the green you give yourself shorter putts & shoot lower scores. As mentioned in this Golf.com article, "There's no range — for any skill level — where laying up to a favorite number, club or any other "favorite" makes mathematical sense if your other option is to send your next shot farther up the fairway (even if it ends up in light rough). The rub is that most golfers, especially weekend players, overestimate the potential success of hitting a 4-iron to a "preferred" layup yardage and underestimate the odds of hitting a 3-wood into a safe position nearer the hole. Send it when you can is your best strategy when you can lay up to any distance you want." You aren't better at 80 vs. 40 yards (or whatever you think is your perfect distance). Sure, you might change strategies on some shots based on hazards or bunkers but don't lay up voluntarily for a perfect club or distance. You will shoot lower scores when you have shorter approach shots. Save the layups for basketball and start attacking par 5s to score like a pro. WICKED SMART GOLF RECOMMENDATIONS Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

I don't know about you, but my mind loves to wander on the golf course. While meditation and other mindfulness techniques have helped, it's still something I must focus on during the round. To play your best golf, you need to put a leash on your mind (metaphorically speaking) so you can focus on one thing only—the present moment. You will never play your best golf if you dwell on bad shots you hit earlier in the day or get anxious about upcoming shots in the current round. As Dr. Joseph Parent said in Zen Golf, "The past is history, the future is a mystery, being alive in this moment is a gift. That's why they call it the present." You can't change the past and the future hasn't happened yet. Focus 100% of your attention on the present moment to give yourself the best chance to hit a good shot. Another easy trick to stay present is to wear a rubber band on your wrist. Anytime you look back to a putt you wish you made or a future shot you're anxious about hitting, snap it. This is another great trick I learned from a sports psychologist that has done wonders for me on the golf course. As I like to say, snap back to reality! Over time, this will train your mind to stay more focused on the present moment and not drift to the past or future. Always remember, golf is one shot at a time - don't get ahead of yourself. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE). Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Golf is about score... NOT having a perfect swing. I say this from years of being an average ball striker - you can shoot in the 70s and even become a scratch golfer WITHOUT having the best mechanics. In golf, it's important to remember that scoring is the essence of the game, not just achieving a perfect swing. While we often strive for flawless form, it is the ability to score well that truly matters. Your performance on the course is determined by how strategically you navigate it and make efficient shots. When you step onto the golf course, your score becomes the ultimate measure of your skill, mental strength, and decision-making abilities. It reflects your ability to manage the course, overcome challenges, and adapt to different conditions. While a perfect swing may look impressive, it doesn't guarantee success on the scorecard. As you know golf requires a blend of technical proficiency and strategic thinking. Even if you have a flawless swing, your score may suffer if you lack good decision-making skills. On the other hand, someone with a less-than-perfect swing but a strong grasp of course management can outperform you. It's all about analyzing the situation, selecting the right club, and executing each shot effectively. Understanding when to take calculated risks, when to play it safe, and how to capitalize on scoring opportunities is what sets successful golfers apart. Remember that the ultimate goal in golf is to achieve a low score. Every shot you take counts towards that score, and it's the cumulative result that determines your standing. While a perfect swing is desirable, it's your scoring prowess, mental acuity, and strategic abilities that truly define your performance on the course. Focus on scoring well, and you'll find success in the game of golf. Listen to learn 5 easy scoring tips to help your game immediately. WICKED SMART GOLF RECOMMENDATIONS Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

The PGA Championship is over but there's a lot to break down. While Brooks walked away with another major (impressive after the Masters meltdown last month) - Michael Block also stole the show as the low club pro. But there's a lot you can learn from watching the best golfers in the world. So let's recap the PGA Championship and go over five lessons you can apply to your game to play wicked smart golf. When you listen you will learn: Why you should speed up your routine The mindset to going low (even with bad breaks) How your body language can impact your mindset and swing. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Learn the easiest way to shoot lower scores without changing your swing using this simple hack. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Golf is a game played between your ears more than you realize. But if you're like most golfers you might overwhelmed with all the mental golf advice out there. So I brought back John Weir, the creator of Mental Golf Type, to help you understand how to use your mind to shoot lower scores. John has a unique understanding of the mind as a professional caddy, author, hypnotist, and peak performance specialist. He's helped my game tremendously and his first appearance on the show (episode #62) is a true master class on understanding your mental golf type. Today we're going to dive even deeper to help you understand how to calm the mind, stay out of stress, and tap into your true potential on the golf course. When you listen to this episode you'll learn: How stress impacts your ability to get in the zone. Why most sports psychology advice doesn't work. How your mind plays a big role in the short game. Why peak performance is NOT a one size fits all approach. The #1 question to ask yourself on every putt to 10X your confidence. Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Don't forget to use the code WICKEDSMART for 25% off on all Mental Golf Type products. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE). Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

PLAYER SURVEY - https://forms.gle/SDihgdBzdyHXK3Dc7 (fill this short survey out to get entered into a $10 Amazon gift card and FREE mental golf coaching). If you're like most golfers, chances are you have some fun summer golf tournaments coming up. Whether it's a member-member, member-guest, USGA qualifier, or a fun trip with your buddies to a bucket list course, it's time to dial in your game. Because let's get real, tournament golf is NOT like normal golf. Tournaments ratchet up the pressure 10X and I've seen scratch players shoot in the 80s and single digit handicaps shoot in the mid 90s... the beauty of competition. In this episode, I'll help you: Reframe nerves to play better Improve your mental game when bad shots happen Reset expectations so you don't add extra pressure on yourself Understand why you need to master your pre-shot routine in practice Why practicing too much can actually crush your confidence (and what to do instead) How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Learn the the Tiger Woods trigger you should use every round. As you know, golf is a game of precision, patience, and focus. It requires you to be in the zone, fully present and aware of you surroundings, and able to manage emotions. One way that you can achieve this state of mind is by using a "trigger" to get into the zone and manage your emotions. A trigger is a physical or mental cue that can help focus attention and energy on the task at hand, blocking out distractions and negative thoughts. One example of a trigger used by golfers is the glove, and it has been used by many top golfers, including Tiger Woods. The glove serves as a physical cue for golfers to enter into a performance bubble, a mental state where you are focused on the task at hand and able to manage their emotions. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

FREE GIVEAWAY (read below) 6 years ago today - May 11th, 2017 I left the corporate world with almost no experience with two goals... build an online business + pursue professional golf. While the pro golf dream is long gone, high level amateur golf is still very much alive. And somehow, I've been able to build a few online businesses including this one to avoid going back to corporate America. When you listen you will learn: Why you need to "swing your swing" How to have more fun and play better every round The importance of getting clear about your golf goals And a lot more. Plus, since it's a celebration I wanted to share what I've learned in this journey to help your golf game. Fill out this short survey and I'll select the 10 best answers to get a $10 Amazon gift card. Plus, two golfers will be selected for a FREE 1:1 mental golf coaching call. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro. Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.