New Course - The Perfect Pre-Shot Routine - Find out more

235: Gary Nicol – Intention, Attention, Attitude, and Enjoying Golf

April 23, 2025
51 Min

Gary Nicol joins The Mental Golf Show. Gary is a Performance Consultant, and co-author along with Karl Morris of The Lost Art Of Putting, The Lost Art Of Playing Golf, and The Lost Art Of The Short Game.

Topics:

  • Golf is often seen as an identity rather than an activity.
  • Players frequently tie their self-worth to their scores.
  • The human brain struggles to stay present and often projects into the future.
  • Influencing performance involves intention, attention, and attitude.
  • Asking positive questions can shift mindset and focus.
  • Resetting one’s mindset can be done after every hole, not just at the turn.
  • We tend to live out the stories we tell ourselves about our performance.
  • Golf should be fun, and enjoyment is key to performance.
  • Self-talk can significantly impact performance and mindset.
  • Clarity of intention is crucial for effective performance. A good coach directs attention to useful areas.
  • Dividing attention can hinder performance.
  • Single-point focus is essential in golf.
  • Finding what works for you is crucial.
  • Dopamine hits from winning can lead to dissatisfaction.
  • Managing expectations is key in youth sports.
  • Golf should be enjoyable, not a grind.
  • Acceptance is a skill that can be developed.
  • Mistakes are a natural part of the game.
  • Emotions in golf can be both a challenge and a motivator.

—–

Gary Nicol’s links

Books on Amazon

performanceprinciples.co.uk

Stay Connected
Receive weekly mental game tips and resources to help you reset and re-focus on and off the golf course.