Swing Thoughts, Redux

I am frequently asked by students and fellow golfers about swing thoughts. I always respond with, "What do you mean by swing thought?" Most often their reaction is kind of a blank or bewildered stare. Most golfers are not really sure what a swing thought really is and how to use them to play better golf.
My first and best ever teacher, my Grandfather,  taught me that swing thoughts happen during four different events:
  1. Before the swing, pre-swing.
  2. Preparing to swing, set-up.
  3. During the swing, swing.
  4. After the swing, post swing.
Each if these types of thoughts should be sequential, structured, deliberate, important, impactful, personal and inspirational. Each of these thought processes should be practiced and polished.

The pre-swing. Decision making. 
  1. What's the lie, stance, and swing path?
    1. how does that impact the swing?
  2. What's the target?
  3. How far is it?
  4. What is the shot shape?
  5. What is the proper club?
  6. What is the correct swing?
Set-up.
  1. Swing rehearsal.
  2. Aim.
  3. Grip.
  4. Alignment.
  5. Posture.
  6. Clarity.
Swing. The golfer has made the right decisions, is in the proper set-up, NOW ACT!
  1. A single thought that is totally in the present.
    1. Tempo
    2. Balance
    3. Relax
    4. Contact
    5. Smooth
  2. Something that inspires the golfer to act in desired manner.
  3. Thought that is free of FEAR, UNCERTAINTY AND DOUBT.
Post-swing.
  1. Were the decisions correct?
    1. Yes . . . rejoice.
    2. No . . . learn from it then rejoice.
  2. Was my execution correct?
    1. Yes . . . rejoice.
    2. No . . . execute a correct swing then rejoice.
So the swing thoughts have distinct but equally important purposes. The pre-swing insures that the golfer has the correct tool and goal in mind to give the best chance of achieving the desired outcome. The set-up puts the golfer in the correct position to confidently execute the desired swing. The swing thought clears the golfers mind of clutter, conflicting thoughts and destructive emotions, setting the scene for success. The post swing creates joy and confidence, while setting up the golfer to play one shot at a time.

You cannot control outcomes, you can only control your own decisions and actions.
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