In NAPA, Calif., Patton Kizzire took the lead at the Procore Championship with a remarkable 7-under 65 in the second round at Silverado Resort’s North Course. After missing the FedEx Cup playoffs last month, Kizzire decided to focus on the mental aspects of his game during a three-week break. He began working with a new sports psychologist in his hometown of Saint Simons Island, Georgia, who introduced unconventional techniques like hugging trees, walking barefoot, and admiring flowers.
One of the unique rituals Kizzire adopted was tree hugging, which he humorously admitted to trying for the first time on the day of his impressive round. Despite not having his best performance, he stayed patient and focused throughout the round. Kizzire acknowledged that instead of getting frustrated or dwelling on mistakes, he made a conscious choice to maintain a positive attitude and embrace the challenges he faced on the course.
With six birdies on the back nine, Kizzire finished the day at 13-under 131, positioning himself as the frontrunner in the tournament. He credits his improved mental state for his success on the course, emphasizing the importance of being the best version of himself and cultivating a sense of playfulness and resilience. Kizzire’s goal is to remain unflappable, maintaining a sense of joy and positivity even in the face of adversity.
Embracing a more organized and carefree approach to his game, Kizzire focuses on staying grounded and not letting negative thoughts affect his performance. By adopting a mindset of joy and resilience, he aims to maintain his composure and perform at his peak level. Kizzire’s newfound mental strategies have proven effective, allowing him to excel and make significant improvements in his play during the tournament.
In the competitive world of professional golf, mental fortitude plays a crucial role in determining success on the course. Kizzire’s unconventional methods, such as tree hugging and mindfulness exercises, highlight the importance of mental well-being in achieving peak performance. By prioritizing mental training and embracing a positive mindset, athletes like Kizzire can elevate their game and reach new heights in their careers.
As Kizzire continues to navigate the challenges of professional golf, he remains committed to refining his mental approach and incorporating innovative techniques to enhance his performance. By embracing new strategies and focusing on mental well-being, he sets himself apart as a player who understands the significance of mindset in achieving success. With his tree-hugging ritual and emphasis on positivity, Kizzire exemplifies the potential of mental training in optimizing athletic performance and achieving excellence in the sport.
