Reviewed by Dr. Jordan Alexander for Readers' Favorite

Golfing Out of Your Mind: Moving Beyond Swing Mechanics by Dave Johnston could equally be titled Tennis Out of Your Mind, Football Out of Your Mind, or indeed any activity where you need to conquer your mental roadblocks to unlock your natural ability. Johnston’s book is not technical as he moves readers to focus beyond the often-cited villain of ‘the swing’ and onto your mindset. Rather than focusing on technical mistakes, Johnston raises awareness around thoughts, how our unconscious mind affects performance, and how controlling memories is the gateway to success. The author takes readers onto the golf course to present his advice. You feel like you are there, walking the course, thoroughly appreciating the light-hearted banter between ‘Dave.’ the author. and his protégé, ornery know-it-all golfer, Jonathan. At each hole Dave imparts wisdom, Jonathan doth protest too much, reluctantly gives it a try, and eventually, Dave’s tips are wholeheartedly embraced as Jonathan starts ‘feeling’ better and improving his performance.

Some of the fabulous takeaways from Golfing Out of Your Mind by Dave Johnston can be applied to all parts of your life. Things like memories are malleable and why reinforcing your good ones to boost confidence is better than obsessing with a swing (or any) fault as it kills your confidence. Watching the words you use as these affect your thoughts. If you say you will top the ball, hit the water hazard, or end up in the rough, that is exactly what will happen. Dave uses pattern disruption to crack Jonathan’s autopilot habits, replacing these with awakened thoughts and aware actions. Setting rituals like the pros use is another great tip, allowing Jonathan to shift his focus before stepping up to hit the ball. Readers will learn to trace their behaviors and use past wins to recreate success more often with new habits. By the end of the book, I was keen to grab my clubs and give this new and improved way of golfing a try. I realize how much of my frustration with the game is not my swing, but my thoughts. Heck, Dave’s tips are already proving useful and I have not yet stepped onto the course! If you are looking for a short and easy read packed full of great insights and practical ways to help you improve your game and your life, Golfing Out of Your Mind is a hole-in-one.