As some of you know, I have been a handwriting analyst for several years, and so as I read Golf Magazine’s October issue, my interest was piqued when reading about Dr. Joe Parent’s suggestion of a mind exercise for golfers. The exercise utilized an individual’s signature to make a point.

To illustrate, Dr. Parent instructs his student to grab a pen and scribble his (the student’s) name on a sheet of paper as if he were signing a check. That writing would come to be known as the First Signature. Next, the golfer is required to trace precisely over the first signature, being very careful to retrace, never going outside the line. This is, as Parent states, one’s Second Signature.

I got the connection immediately and could relate readily. I ask any person to write a few sentences of free thought. Now, I tell them, “I’m a handwriting analyst,” before that writing and see what happens.

And just about now you’re asking, “What in the world does this have to do with golf?!”

Hello tension! Hello stress! In both instances the movement that is normally almost automatic suddenly becomes one of self-consciousness and labored preciseness. Care is focused on the task at hand. Muscles tense, rhythm slows, hesitation and pauses set in, and…you get the picture.

Dr. Parent is making a point. The First Signature is done freely and easily. Real thought is not required. The action is effortless and almost mindlessly carried out.

The Second Signature, however, requires a different sort of focus. The hand tenses up. Stiffness becomes a key word. Natural rhythm vanishes.

Now take this analogy to the practice range. The range--that lovely, broad expanse of wide open space--only those distance markers between you and gorgeous shots. It is here where you swing freely, almost effortlessly. “Loose” might be the operative word… or might we say “First Signature”?

This is the Signature we need to take to the golf course, but many times it is our Second Signature that becomes our golf partner. Too often on the course a fear of consequences takes over and tension lifts its ugly head.

As most golfers know, the mental game of golf is perhaps equally as important as the physical, mechanical aspects of the game. This is what Dr. Parent stresses in his work with golfers and others who may be seeking to improve their game either on the course or in the business world.

Dr. Parent, the author of Zen Golf, is a distinguished PGA Tour instructor who brings his insights and wisdom, not only to golfers, but to the business world as well. Learn more about him and his methods by going to www.zengolf.com.

Hit ‘em well, and be Zensational!

Jeanne
President 2008-2009