Golf coach Kathy Hart of the Think Above Par podcast shares a powerful story about how one golfer transformed her experience on the course simply by changing the words she used about herself. Two small phrase shifts — and no more bolting to the car after a bad round. If the way you talk to yourself on the course is quietly draining your confidence, this one is worth your time.
Kathy Hart – Game Improvement
Kathy Hart walks through a real client story to show just how much our habitual self-talk affects not just how we feel, but how we experience every round. The lesson isn’t about swing mechanics — it’s about noticing the words you say to yourself after a bad shot, and deciding whether they’re helping or hurting. This video suits any golfer who has ever muttered something unkind to herself and assumed it didn’t really matter.
Key Takeaways Your brain can’t tell when you’re joking
Every negative thing you say about yourself — even throwaway remarks meant to get a laugh — registers as real to your brain and chips away at your confidence over time.
Separate yourself from your score
Shifting from “I wasn’t sharp today” to “my game wasn’t sharp today” is a small but meaningful change that stops you from tying your identity to your results.
You have three options with any unhelpful thought
Once you notice a thought that isn’t serving you, you can keep it, dump it entirely, or shift it to something slightly more useful — but you have to notice it first.
Next time you head out for a round, set one simple intention: notice the words you use about yourself after a bad shot, and try dropping just one phrase that doesn’t serve you. This video is ideal for any golfer who wants to enjoy the game more — regardless of handicap — and is ready to treat her mental habits with the same attention she gives her swing.
To continue, please log in to your account — or create a free account to unlock expert tips, news, and community content made just for women who love golf.
Don’t worry — it’s quick and easy. You’ll be redirected to the homepage when you’re done, and you can come right back here anytime.
Haven’t got an account? Enter your email to unlock more great content
Your Game. Your Community.
Your App.
Expert-led golf content meets a supportive women’s community all in one smart app.
Join Women & Golf Connect

With a Connect membership, you’ll unlock everything Women & Golf has to offer — expert instruction, exclusive events, and a supportive community of women golfers across the UK.
