Your emotions on the golf course have a big effect on the outcome of your score from the beginner golfer to the best professional golfers in the world. All are affected by their emotions. For example, Tiger Woods emotions were effected by the passing of his father Earl before the 2006 US Open where he failed to qualify but then turned himself around and using the inner communication that he enjoyed when his father was alive, to win the 2006 British Open and USPGA.

Your bad shots are generally caused by lapses of concentration, trying too hard, lack of confidence etc. You can certainly reduce the number of bad shots through lessons and practice.

People you play with can have an effect, such as playing in the company of a better golfer, your superiors from work, an argument with someone close to you. Overcoming this problem is really mind over matter, but breathing slow and deep will ease the tension in your body.

Playing a round with friends should be relaxing. The teasing from your friends can upset your game, for example the comments “watch out for the hazard, out of bounds, the trees, a 1 metre putt for par or birdie etc.” You have to try and treat these comments in the manner they are meant, go along with the gamesmanship otherwise it will work against you.

Good and bad luck are an integral part of golf so try to accept it on an even emotion.