Golf is a game filled with ups and downs, and it’s easy to get caught up in focusing on the shots that you don’t have rather than the ones you do. This concept is known as the capability versus capacity dilemma, as explained by sports psychologist Dr. Bhrett McCabe. While we all have a certain level of capability as golfers – our true potential or best selves – we often find ourselves operating at a lower capacity due to various factors such as fatigue, distractions, or physical ailments.
When comparing ourselves to tour pros like Scottie Scheffler, it’s important to realize that they also face challenges in bringing 100 percent of their capabilities to the course. Pros are able to accept their current capacity and focus on utilizing the strengths of their game rather than obsessing over what is not working. This mindset allows them to make strategic decisions on the course that maximize their chances of scoring well.
Instead of getting fixated on the parts of your game that are off, it’s important to embrace the strengths you do bring to the course on any given day. Whether it’s your putting, chipping, or driving, focusing on what is working can help you score lower and avoid unnecessary errors. Pros understand the importance of playing to their strengths and adjusting their game plan accordingly to capitalize on their abilities that day.
While you may be capable of hitting certain shots, it’s crucial to recognize that you may not have the capacity to execute them every day. By taking a mental scan of your game from the range to the first tee, you can determine what percentage of your skills you are bringing to the course and adjust your approach accordingly. This shift in mindset can lead to lower scores and less energy wasted on trying to force shots that are not there.
In conclusion, the key to success in golf is to focus on what is working well on a given day and leverage those strengths to score better. By accepting your current capacity and playing to your abilities, you can avoid the trap of obsessing over your weaknesses and instead focus on executing a game plan that maximizes your chances of success. Pros understand the importance of staying present and making strategic decisions based on their current abilities, and by following their lead, you can improve your game and enjoy greater success on the course.
