How to get out of a slump

Many golfers, regardless of skill level, experience slumps in their game. Here are 10 strategies that can help you get back on track:

1. Acceptance

Possibly the most powerful word in golf performance. Accepting poor shots or bad rounds builds resilience and helps you move forward. Slumps are inevitable—cut yourself some slack and stay patient.

2. Separate Yourself from Your Golf Performance

A bad round doesn’t define you. Whether you shoot 65 or 85, you are still the same person. Detaching your self-worth from your score is key to maintaining a healthy mindset.

3. Uncover the Root Cause

Understanding what’s costing you the most shots is crucial. Golf stat platforms can pinpoint weaknesses. Don’t fear data—the more you analyze it, the simpler it becomes. Bringing objective insights to your coach can fast-track improvement. A few minutes of tracking stats can mean the difference between a minor setback and a prolonged slump.

4. Focus on 2-3 Key Areas

Identify and prioritize small, impactful improvements. For example, if your make percentage for 5–10 foot putts is low or your wedge proximity from 70–100 yards is inconsistent, target those areas. Measure your practice sessions to ensure steady progress.

5. Plan Your Practice

Create a structured weekly or monthly practice plan. Working efficiently on weaker areas is empowering and ensures you’re moving in the right direction.

6. Track Your Progress

Use practice tests to monitor improvements. You’re either getting better or not—it’s that simple. Share results with your coach (or team) to determine if adjustments are needed.

7. Play from Forward Tees

Even Bryson DeChambeau does it, and Jack Nicklaus used to before major championships to build confidence. Playing from forward tees exposes you to different shots on your home course and helps you regain a scoring mindset.

8. Become Your Own CEO

Successful CEOs make critical decisions and oversee their company’s direction. Approach your game the same way—ask the right questions, ensure your coaching team is aligned, and track all relevant performance data.

9. Journal Your Performances

Reflection is key to improvement. Even on your worst days, you likely hit three great shots. Writing down highlights shifts focus from negatives to positives. Journaling also improves mental resilience and overall well-being.

10. Build Mental Resilience

Focusing on the process rather than results is essential during a slump. Try writing 3-4 motivational sentences in your yardage book to maintain confidence. Low confidence often leads to emotional reactions mid-round. Techniques like controlled breathing can keep you grounded and present. Evaluate your game based on mental performance, not just scores.

By applying these strategies, you can navigate slumps more effectively and enjoy your journey toward improvement. Have you ever experienced a slump? If so, what helped you get through it?