Golf tip: Are you distracted on the golf course? | News, Sports, Jobs

Golfers who have trouble concentrating during 18 holes of golf may have temporary distractions.

Staying focused is equally as important as working on good swing mechanics. It is easy to allow the mind to wander and lose focus. It is the one problem most golfers overlook.

Try playing with your cell phone turned off. Don’t think about other things, such as work-related problems, bills or feeling guilty about spending four or five hours on the golf course.

Stay in the moment and think about the shot you are about to hit. Take the time to enjoy playing golf with your friends or family and don’t put undue pressure on yourself to perform beyond your capabilities.

For some golfers, staying tuned requires a great deal of concentration and work. It’s more difficult than practicing your swing. The best way to remain focused is to have a repetitive shot routine and don’t deviate. All PGA tour players are committed to a pre-shot routine regardless of the distractions at hand.

Don’t forget to enjoy this game called golf.

Rick Musselman, a golf author and professional, owns Musselman’s Golf in Williamsport.

Today’s breaking news and more in your inbox