The day’s first shot is key. It often sets the tone for the entire round, so you want to make the day’s first shot good so you can get off to a good start. It should be no surprise that some golfers consider the first shot the toughest of the round. With so much riding on the first shot, many weekend golfers start thinking negatively about it. Before long, they’ve developed a bad case of the jitters.
Here are five techniques to combat first-tee jitters
- Deep breathing
- Clear your mind
- See the shot in your mind
- Temper expectations
- Think of something funny
Deep breathing is a simple but a proven relaxation technique. It makes sure your body gets the oxygen it needs to calm you down. It also helps release the tension built up within you when you breathe out.
Clearing your mind is another effective relaxation technique. When the jitters first hit, your mind goes into overdrive. You see yourself hitting a bad shot or worse, swinging and missing. Instead, clear your mind of all negative thoughts. Then focus on going through your pre-shot routine.
Visualization is third relaxation technique. We often do what we see in our minds. So see yourself hitting a good shot in your mind—flight path and all. Keep that picture in mind when addressing the ball. Combining visualization with deep breathing is a powerful, jitter-defeating combination.
Tempering expectations also neutralizes the jitters. You don’t have to hit a perfect shot off the first tee, just a good one. Trying to make a perfect shot only adds to the pressure. Instead, take a deep breath, identify a realistic target, and swing away—but only 80 percent of your normal swing.
Laughter is the best stress reliever of all. So try to find something to laugh about before hitting. Recall something funny you or your wife did. If there’s a comedian in your foursome, ask him to tell a joke.
Don’t let first-tee jitters spoil your round. Use the techniques described above to neutralize them. This will give you a head start to hitting a good first shot.
