Definition of madness

The definition of madness: keep doing the same thing over and over again, but expect a different result, is relevant here. I'm not talking about golf swings or strategies. I am talking about thinking.

In my previous post I carried on about keeping a straight lead arm (left arm for me). That's great; a straight lead arm is desirable, especially at impact. But to actually think about keeping that arm straight while playing a shot is to suffer from our old favourite 'paralysis by analysis'.

A golf swing, as I'm sure I've noted and acknowledged as correct, is a singular entity in itself. It might be the sum of the parts, but it actually needs to be treated as that entity. Thinking about any part of the swing, during the swing, is to severely risk compromising the quality of the total product.

My mistake, my ongoing mistake, has been to believe there is a swing thought (or maybe a couple of swing thoughts) that will allow me to find success. I've been looking for something to take me from being a struggling teen handicapper to a consistent, competent, single figure player. It hasn't happened.

I believe I now have to accept my current golf swing - to trust it - and be satisfied that combined with some short game work (which can be improved with good practise and strategy) it will allow me to play to my potential. Distance off the tee, declining as it is, means I also have to be realistic.

Having said that, I am confident that my game, along with the game of many weekend warriors, can be improved by having a sound grip and set up. I've said that before and I repeat it. Alignment is another area - pre swing - where improvement can be made. To me this at least is a no brainer.

But speaking of no brainers, I hope that I can finally get over my madness. I want to accept the swing I have, work on what I can work on, and enjoy this maddening game a little bit more.