The 17-Second Strategy

Research shows that negative thoughts lasting 17 seconds or less won’t significantly affect our long-term golf performance. It’s inevitable we will miss shots, and such misses can evoke strong emotions. With the 17-second mindset, we can view a strong emotional reaction after a missed shot as an opportunity to quickly identify ways to adjust and improve the next shot. It can serve as an “attention grabber” to help us focus on the corrections needed to make better shots in the near future.
However, some coaching systems suggest that practicing getting angry will simply make us better at getting angry. It’s crucial to manage reactions, let go of negative thoughts, and move on. Especially before we get to the next shot!
With this strategy, we can achieve a happier and more successful golf journey. What other experiences can benefit from the 17-second mindset?
Dodie Mazzuca is the author of “Seamless Golf,” “Golf Sūtras,” “Daily Golf Tap-Ins,” and is the founder of Golf PROformance LLC. She teaches golf lessons, golf schools, and performance coaching for in Santa Cruz, CA and Reno, NV.