I recently played in an individual stroke play tournament with my local men’s league. I like playing in these types of events because they test my golf game (course conditions are usually more difficult) and my mental game.
A common tournament test is difficult playing partners. These people are usually so hyper-focused on their own performance—and so loud about it—that they suck the life out of the group.
If you play a lot of golf, whether casually or in tournaments, chances are you’ll run into someone like this. When you do, these tips will help you stay focused and have more fun.
- See them clearly. People like this seem arrogant, so you don’t think they need validation, but often the opposite is true. Like us, they want the group to think they’re good, they’re just more vocal about it. While tough on the outside, they just want to be admired.
- Don’t engage. Because of this, you might think that giving them some encouragement will quiet them down. It won’t, they’ll just suck you in even more. You also might think it will make your round easier by getting the intimidating one on your side. It won’t. The best thing you can do is ignore them. Don’t worry, they won’t get mad at you. They probably won’t even notice you’re doing it.
- Go your own way. Fleetwood Mac was right; you can go your own way. Walking in a different area of the fairway, or at a different pace. Stand on the other side of the tee box. Stay in your own space on the green. Putting physical distance between the two of you will help you stay out of their orbit, physically and metaphorically.
- Create a bubble. It’s nearly impossible to get your brain to stop doing something you don’t want it to do. Instead, get your brain to actively do something else. Sing a song or replay a movie inside your head. Count your steps or your breaths as you walk. Admire the shapes and colors of the golf course. Do whatever works keep your attention squarely in the circle of things you can control.
Finally, go easy on yourself. Even following these tips, it’s hard to stay focused when you play with someone like this. It’s also hard to stay focused the entire round. Progress, not perfection.