The Second Best Time to Start

In this episode, Craig delves into a topic that many golfers can relate to—the importance of getting a head start on your golf game for future success. We often make the mistake of thinking that the issues we're facing right now are solely a result of our current actions. However, in golf and life, there's a lag time, typically ranging from 60 to 120 days, before our present efforts bear fruit. Craig highlights the common human tendency to expect immediate results. We tend to believe that if we work hard today, we should see the fruits of our labor right away. But that's not how it works in golf or in life. What we do today is like writing the headlines of our lives for the next few months. The core message here is clear: if you want to be at the top of your game in March, April, or May, the time to start is now, not when those months arrive. Craig discusses the notion of discipline and consistency, key elements for improving your golf game. Discipline, in this context, means having the ability to stick to your practice routine even when you don't particularly feel like doing it. It's about doing what's necessary to achieve your goals. The importance of daily five-minute practice sessions at home is emphasized as a means to foster consistency. These short daily routines help ingrain your desired changes over time. Moving on, Craig delves into the distinction between short-term fixes and long-term improvements in golf. Short-term fixes, which can be seen in the 14-day intensive program, provide quick solutions to specific issues that can lead to immediate improvements. However, it's made clear that these are not the same as the long-term changes required to tackle fundamental problems. Craig then delves into the concept of lag time, particularly in the context of significant swing changes. It takes time for your efforts to result in a lasting transformation. In this context, the lag time can range from six months to a year. The transition from an over-the-top swing with a chicken wing to a more effective inside path with a forearm rollover release is discussed. The importance of timing and the release is underlined. Craig distinguishes between short-term improvements and long-term swing changes, highlighting that the latter requires consistent practice and a willingness to adapt to the new mechanics. The conversation shifts towards understanding the stages of making a swing change, from being unaware of the issue to reaching a point where it becomes second nature. The ultimate goal is unconscious competence, where the new swing feels natural on the course. The importance of frequent, short practice sessions at home is stressed. These sessions are not only more effective in rewiring your brain but also more practical than marathon range sessions, which often lead to distractions and inconsistent practice. The role of Live Lesson Fridays is explored, where members can receive immediate feedback and learn to develop their "eye" for their swing. Craig notes that having a clear understanding of what you're working on can greatly boost motivation for practice.