Apr 25, 2022

Overcoming Golf Funk With Kim Eaton and Adam Walicki

golf tips and tricks handicap index mental hurdles of golf

“You need to have a certain nervousness to play in national events because it keeps you motivated and focused.”

Fear of driving, putting, and chipping are very common worries that many golfers have. When these fears are overcome, it will enable you to break free of your handicap and shoot lower scores. No Fear Golf is for beginners and for all of those who suffer from insecurities, fears, and anxieties, who would like to play golf but think they cannot. Good golf starts with a relaxed mind and body.

About Kim Eaton and Adam Walicki

Kim Eaton is the Executive Director of the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame, founded in 1973 to honor men and women who have made a profound impact on Colorado Golf. It also promotes the future of the game while recognizing achievement and preserving Colorado’s golf history. Adam Walicki has made 10 USGA Appearances; 2 US Am's, 2 US Jr. Am's, 2 US State Team's, 4 US MidAm's 2018, 2019 Arizona Golf Association Player of the Year, University of Detroit Hall of Fame, 2-time Conference championship teams in College and 3-time All-Conference individual in College (1 Player of the year).

Things to do when you feel discouraged

Are you feeling low? Are you afraid you won't get out of your slump? Have you lost faith in yourself and your golf game? Just imagine how much better it will feel for you to play consistent, streak-free golf. Kim explains that sometimes we need a day off to recover from our fear of the game. Adam added by explaining that although some people need a break to recover, others need to push the gas. He quit golf and stayed three years without a club because he was disappointed that he didn’t meet his expectations.

Why handicaps don’t matter

“If handicaps were real, everybody would be at least 20% higher.”

Handicap in golf is the number that determines a player’s ability. Low handicaps are considered better than high handicaps. A lower handicap means the player does not shoot as many strokes as players with higher handicaps. Every player’s handicap starts at 0 for men and 20 for women, and as rounds are recorded, scores are averaged out to determine the final estimate. However, handicaps don’t really matter in the game. Adam explains that the only reason handicaps are slightly relevant is for you to feel better.

Taking the next step

The central part of the golf game is striking the ball at the target, and the flight's path of the ball should be as short as possible. To get a feel for the game, most golfers start to play with driving range games, chipping practice, putting, or even bunker shots. When you have found a golf course, brush up your skills, choose the necessary equipment, and focus on playing a complete round of golf. Get out there and figure out how you are going to improve.