Zen Golf Book Review
Summary:
ZEN GOLF: Mastering the Mental Game by Dr. Joseph Parent, contains three main sections.
— Part 1: A Different Perspective
— Part 2: The PAR Approach: Preparation, Action, Response to Results
— Part 3: A Game of Honor.
Each chapter in A Different Perspective starts with either a story, puzzle, riddle, or quote, and then relates them to golf and Buddhism. The PAR Approach includes three sub-sections: P stands for Preparation. It talks about how to gain confidence by practicing the 3 C’s: Clarity, Commitment, and Composure. The chapters include such things as imagery, getting rid of doubt or hesitation, and staying calm and focused. A stands for Action. It discusses having a ideal state of mind, staying in the present, and getting your body and mind synchronized. The goal of this sub-section is to allow you to execute a shot free from interference of mental chatter or paralysis by analysis. R stands for Response to results. It includes post shot routines, ways to recognize and undo negativity and self sabotage, and techniques for changing habits. The goal of this sub-section is to reinforce good shots with positive feelings and self encouragement, have minimal emotional distress around poor shots, maintain a sense of humor, and refrain from beating yourself up. These ways of responding to results will give you the best chance of success. The last section, A Game of Honor, is based on something called Shambala Golf and its values of Virtue, Discipline, Humor, and Friendship. It concludes with a summary of playing golf with a quality of dignity that is gentle, inquisitive, and fearless.
Overview:
I really enjoyed Zen Golf because of its practical mental tips, its enjoyable stories, and its ability to make you see a different perspective.
Pros:
- I felt the book was especially strong in changing your thinking or perspective.
- I especially enjoyed how the book flowed and was easy to read.
- I was captivated by the stories and lessons you learned from them.
- The biggest appeal for me was the practical mental tips you can use on the golf course.
Quote:
‘A Zen student went for an interview with his master. The student said, “I know this may require a very lengthy and complex answer, but I request guidelines for conducting myself wherever I am, so that my attitude and behavior are always excellent.”
The master said, “Actually, the answer is quite brief and simple: In every situation, conduct yourself as if your five-year-old child were watching you.” ‘
I want to thank Dr. Joseph Parent for providing a copy of this amazing book. Another great book of his that’s worth checking out is “The Best Diet Book Ever: The Zen of Losing Weight “.
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Click here for more info: The Best Diet Book Ever: The Zen of Losing Weight
