Book #2 "Easier Said than Done"

This book was recently written/published by Dr. Rick Jensen (a nationally recognized sports psychologist and performance consultant) who I saw present at an AMF Golf Management Summit I attended in September. He is so dynamic, funny and I really like his approach to "coaching."

In this book, Dr. Rick reveals the 12 "tour-tested truths" that you need to know and apply to play to your potential on the course. Of course, they are "easier said than done". It is not meant to be a discouraging title, instead motivational and a reality check for those golfers who don't know what it really takes to make changes and truly how to improve (like the Pros). Now of course, most of us are not Pros or looking to become Pros, but anyone can benefit from the suggestions in this book and align them to their goals and playing level.

We are all "victims" of an instant-gratification society. We all want our information, communication, answers immediately (faster internet, electronic and wireless everything, text messaging, sms and rss feeds, twitter, etc.) and so as a result we also expect instant results even in golf. We have to learn to be patient, find a good coach, learn to master a basic skills without skipping steps. Most golfers never truly master a new skill or swing change- they can do it in practice, but not on the course under pressure, they wonder why. Here are the steps to skill mastery which breeds improvement and confidence: Step 1- Understand cause & effect, Step 2- Supervised practice, Step 3- transfer training (course application), Step 4- play (put it to the test).

Dr. Rick signed my copy of the book, and in his note wrote "Its about more than the swing." I agree with him. Good golf does not come from a picture perfect golf swing it comes from (1) good ball control (2) proper decision making and (3) self management. He touches on all of these ideas and more: stat tracking, creating a game plan for practice, setting realistic goals, the importance of fitness, etc.

Its a quick read and well worth it, especially as we get closer to golf season. It will give you some fresh ideas about practice and how to approach your game, selecting a coach and how to spend your time wisely to reach your goals in golf. For more information about Dr. Rick or his book, please visit www.drrickjensen.com