The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast - Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching for High-Performers

Most golfers think performance is a two-part equation: talent + hard work. Craig Domann says that's exactly why so many players stay stuck—because when results don't match effort, they start hunting for shortcuts: a new driver, a new swing coach, a new "hack" to finally feel confident. But Craig's worked with 300+ NFL athletes and coaches over 30 years, and he's seen the real separator up close: Mindset is the multiplier. Not the motivational-poster version of mindset—Craig means your story, your standards, your ability to play an inside game (you vs. you), and your capacity to detach from outcomes when the moment gets loud. This conversation is a blueprint for anyone chasing the next level—on the course, in business, and in life—especially if you've ever felt behind before you even tee it up. In this episode, you'll learn: Why mindset is the missing variable that lets you outperform your "expected" ceiling How your inner story shows up in "Olympic moments" (first tee, final holes, big meetings) The difference between playing an inside game vs. outside game (and why 90% get trapped) Why "going all-in" requires vulnerability—and how fear of judgment keeps you small The hidden enemy of elite performance: comfort, convenience, and entitlement How to use detachment to access flow when stakes, money, or validation creep in Craig's P5 framework: Preparation, Practice, Pit Crew, Preview, Process Get your pencils ready and start listening.  Apply for 1-1 Mindset and Performance Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Craig Domann Step into the mindset of the pros with Craig Domann, a seasoned NFL agent who has negotiated more than half a billion dollars in contracts for 100+ NFL Draft Picks and 300+ NFL Players. He now works with high school and college athletes, representing them for their NIL agreements.  With more than 30 years of experience guiding elite athletes and coaches, Craig has reverse-engineered the mindset that drives the best to greatness. He's developed a coaching program for coaches, athletes, executives and entrepreneurs and he is the author of Pro Mindset®: Be Your Best in Your Biggest Moments, as well as the host of the Pro Mindset® Podcast. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Mindset is the missing variable: talent + hard work is incomplete—without mindset you chase "hacks" (new driver, new coach) instead of expanding your ceiling. Your "Olympic moment" story is the real story: what you tell yourself when you're outdriven, on the first tee, or protecting a lead is what determines execution. Self-belief is built on self-love: most people carry years of "trash" and scar tissue into every round unless they learn to release it and rewrite the narrative. Elite performers play an inside game: less comparison, less social-media validation, more "me vs. me" autonomy and self-trust under pressure. Going all-in is the true price of elite: it's vulnerable (like showing your cards in poker), and most people avoid that exposure more than they want to win. Detachment unlocks flow: counting money, accolades, sponsors, or "what this means" creates interference; "nothing to lose" is why comebacks happen. Comfort competes with success: entitlement and convenience justify skipped reps; rest matters, but it must be scheduled intentionally and paired with proper pace. Key Quotes: "When you add your God given ability, plus the training and the hard work you put in, and then your mindset, you can actually outperform what people think you should be able to do." "The story that shows up in those Olympic moments… is the story we tell ourselves." "It's belief in love. It's self-belief and self-love." "They have the uncanny ability to play an inside game instead of an outside game." "To truly be elite, you've got to have the courage and the guts to go all in with no safety net." "The best place to reside is to be in the uncomfortable zone." "The story you tell yourself needs to be on that billboard… because that's your swing thought." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Foundation of Elite Performance 02:31: The Power of Mindset 05:20: Self-Belief and Self-Love 08:12: The Inside Game vs. Outside Game 10:53: Going All In: The Cost of Elite Success 13:38: The Role of Comfort and Complacency 16:10: Rest, Rejuvenation, and Sustainable Success 22:40: Finding the Right Pace for Success 24:20: Navigating Contract Negotiations 27:41: Building an Effective Inner Circle 29:07: The Role of Character in Success 32:11: Rewriting Your Story for Growth 36:21: Strategies for High-Level Performance

There's a pressure you've been feeling lately. A quiet sense that your current results, identity, or life no longer fit who you're capable of becoming. And here's the truth most people don't want to admit: growth doesn't feel like confidence — it feels like discomfort. Expansion feels like uncertainty. It feels like being stretched. It feels like something has to change… but you're not sure what. In this episode, I break down what expansion really requires. Not just chasing bigger goals — but becoming the person capable of holding bigger goals. Because you can't expand while protecting the identity that created your current results. In this episode, you'll learn: Why growth begins with discomfort — not clarity How holding onto what's familiar is secretly suffocating your expansion Why your current identity is producing your current results The lobster molting metaphor and how it applies to your life and performance How to create energetic capacity for success through release Four powerful reflection questions to identify what you must let go of One simple but bold action step to initiate your next level If you want lower scores, greater success, more impact, more peace, or more freedom — this conversation will challenge you to let go before you level up. Expansion isn't about getting more. It's about becoming more. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  The 90-Day Golf Identity Upgrade Accelerator: This is a private 3-month coaching container designed to help serious golfers rapidly upgrade their beliefs, rewire their golf identity, and accelerate lower scores through deep subconscious transformation — not surface-level tactics. Click here to learn more and DM me "identity upgrade on Instagram (@thepaulsalter) to learn more. Spots are limited to the first 10 people.  Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Growth begins with discomfort, not clarity — the pressure you feel is evidence you've outgrown your current identity. You must release before you receive — expansion requires letting go of old beliefs, habits, and commitments to create space for more. Your current identity is producing your current results — different outcomes require becoming a different person at the core. Expansion includes a period of vulnerability — temporary uncertainty is the price of increased capacity. Expansion is a lifelong cycle — pressure, release, reorganization, and greater capacity repeat at every new level. Key Quotes: "Growth does not begin with clarity. It begins with discomfort." "The life you want cannot fit inside the identity you're currently protecting." "Holding on to what is familiar suffocates growth." "The shell that once protected you eventually becomes the shell that limits you." "Expansion begins the moment you stop protecting who you were and start building who you're becoming." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Tension of Growth 02:34: Understanding Expansion 11:00: Introducing the Golf Identity Upgrade Accelerator 13:42: The Process of Letting Go 16:38: The Lobster Metaphor for Expansion 19:26: Questions for Reflection 27:08: Creating Space for New Possibilities 29:44: Taking Action Towards Expansion

Dr. Bob Winters—The Confidence Doctor—is back for round two, and this conversation is a straight-up masterclass in what actually creates elite confidence. Because here's the truth: most golfers (and high performers) don't have an information problem. They have a compliance problem. We talk about why "positive thinking" is useless without "positive doing," how Dr. Bob uses a deceptively simple question—"Are you good?"—to expose blind spots, and why real confidence is earned through proof, not hype. We also go to a deeper place: the cost of becoming elite. The strain. The sacrifice. The quiet moments where you wonder if it's worth it. And why, for the people who truly want it, the hard is what makes it great. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "positive doing" is the missing link between ambition and results The simple question that exposes confidence… or hidden self-doubt How to stop "knowing what to do" but still not doing it What elite performers do differently when setbacks knock them down The real cost of elite confidence—and why it's worth paying How to use selective attention to train your focus (and your results) Why compliance is the separator between winners and wannabes Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Check out episode 76 for my past conversation with Dr. Bob.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Apply for 1-1 Mindset and Performance Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. More About Dr. Bob Winters Dr. Robert K. Winters, affectionately known as "Dr. Bob," is an internationally renowned sports psychologist, author, and professional speaker with over 45 years of experience in the field of sports performance.  He holds a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology from the University of Virginia, along with Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ball State University. Dr. Winters has dedicated his career to understanding the psychological components of athletic excellence, focusing on confidence development and mental toughness.  He has worked with a diverse range of athletes, including PGA and LPGA Tour professionals, collegiate teams, and junior athletes Purchase "The 10 Commandments of Mindpower Golf" Connect on Instagram - @dr.bobwinters  Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Positive thinking without positive doing is emotional entertainment, not transformation. Confidence grows fastest when you collect proof—small wins, repeated, over time. "Are you good?" is a diagnostic question that reveals belief, hesitation, and identity. Most people aren't stuck because they don't know what to do—they're stuck because they won't do it consistently. Setbacks are training reps for resilience: reset, reframe, re-engage—especially in golf. Elite confidence has a cost: sacrifice, discomfort, doubt, and the willingness to keep going anyway. Compliance is the hard truth—if you won't do what you said you'd do, you're not committed, you just like the idea. Key Quotes: "I turn the improbable into possible." "We talk about positive thinking… but you have to have positive doing." "It takes a long time to learn how to play like yourself." "You do it until you become it." "We've got to get through the suck before we get through the success." "It's the hard that makes it great." "Are you doing what you said you wanted to do?" Time Stamps: 00:00: Introduction to Dr. Bob's Work 02:33: Bridging Positive Thinking and Doing 05:42: Peeling Back the Layers of Self-Discovery 08:34: The Cost of Elite Confidence 11:21: The Importance of Compliance and Accountability 14:19: The Role of Resilience in Success 17:05: The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 19:38: The Power of Self-Reflection 22:52: The Importance of Authenticity 25:33: The Balance of Selfishness and Self-Fullness 28:18: The Hard Work Behind Success 30:53: The Role of Truth in Personal Growth 33:39: The Mindset of Winners 36:45: Final Thoughts and Resources

Somewhere in your life right now, indecision is costing you. There's a conversation you've been avoiding. A move in business you've been hesitating to make. A commitment to your game you keep postponing. And every single day you delay, it drains your energy, erodes your confidence, and chips away at your self-trust. In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I break down why indecision is one of the most destructive habits high performers fall into—and how it silently sabotages your performance on the golf course, in business, and at home. We unpack the science behind cognitive load, the Zeigarnik effect, and decision fatigue to understand why "thinking about it" is often more exhausting than simply acting. I share powerful reframes, personal examples, and practical tools to help you close open loops, reclaim your mental bandwidth, and build confidence through decisive action. In this episode, you'll learn: Why indecision creates cognitive overload and drains your mental performance How open mental loops (the Zeigarnik effect) silently exhaust your energy Why indecision is often avoidance dressed up as analysis The difference between gathering information and delaying courage How decisive action builds identity-level confidence Why "what if it works?" is the more powerful question Practical prompts to help you close the loop and act today If you're serious about becoming a scratch golfer, scaling your business, or becoming the man you know you're capable of being—this is the episode that challenges you to finally make the decision you already know needs to be made. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to get a taste of high-performance hypnotherapy and the impact it can have on your life? Click here to apply to work with me and I'll be in touch to get this call scheduled Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Indecision is not safe—it is mentally, emotionally, and financially costly. Your brain hates uncertainty. Open loops drain energy until you close them. Waiting for certainty kills momentum; decisiveness builds clarity and confidence. Indecision is often avoidance disguised as "needing more time." You become someone who trusts himself by acting like someone who trusts himself. Key Quotes: "High performers don't collapse because they make bad decisions—they collapse because they don't make decisions at all." "Indecision is avoidance dressed up as analysis." "Clarity does not come from waiting. Clarity comes from action." "Indecision accelerates mental exhaustion because it consumes energy without producing resolution." "You become someone who trusts himself by acting like someone who trusts himself." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Cost of Indecision 02:52: Understanding Indecision and Its Impact 09:42: Cognitive Load and Decision Fatigue 16:08: The Emotional Toll of Indecision 22:24: Taking Action and Building Confidence

UPDATE: I have decided to start anew on Instagram. Follow me @thepaulsalter for your daily dose of high-performance wisdom, insights, and actions. In this episode, I sit down with Scott Fawcett for our third conversation—and this one goes far beyond strategy charts and strokes gained. We dig into what actually separates golfers who want to play good golf from those who are genuinely committed to winning. Scott shares unfiltered insights from working with elite players, his own experiences chasing professional golf, and the uncomfortable psychological traits that show up at the highest levels of performance. We explore obsession, selfishness, loving nerves, emotional regulation, meditation, and the hard truth that elite success often requires becoming someone most people are unwilling—or unable—to be. This conversation also weaves into life, parenting, money, identity, and how meditation and awareness prepare you for the inevitable storms both on and off the course. This is a raw, wide-ranging discussion about excellence, suffering, fulfillment, and what it really costs to pursue greatness. In this episode, you'll learn: The real mental difference between wanting to play well and being committed to winning Why elite golfers fall in love with monotony and repetition How "loving nerves" becomes a competitive advantage Why being "too nice" can quietly cap your potential How meditation builds emotional regulation under pressure Why reframing thoughts—not eliminating them—is the real work How defining success incorrectly sabotages long-term fulfillment Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Check out episode 66 and episode 88 for my past conversations with Scott.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Apply for 1-1 Mindset and Performance Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. More About Scott Fawcett Scott Fawcett created the revolutionary DECADE Golf System, a data-driven course management strategy that has transformed how golfers at all levels approach the game.  With three degrees in mathematics, a background in professional golf, and a passion for poker, Scott has combined statistical analysis with real-world performance insights to help players make smarter decisions and lower their scores.  His DECADE system has been used by top PGA Tour pros, including Bryson DeChambeau and Will Zalatoris, as well as collegiate and amateur golfers seeking a strategic edge. Scott's journey includes playing collegiate golf at Texas A&M, competing professionally on mini-tours, and applying his deep understanding of analytics to optimize shot selection and on-course strategy.  Learn more about Scott and Decade Golf here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Elite performers are wired to embrace monotony and obsessive repetition. Wanting to eliminate nerves is a losing strategy; learning to love them is essential. Being nice and being kind are not the same—and niceness often limits success. Winning requires emotional regulation, not emotional suppression. Thoughts only gain power when you attach to them and rehearse them. Meditation trains awareness that transfers directly into performance under pressure. Fulfillment comes from meaningful pursuit, not chasing pleasure or avoiding discomfort. Key Quotes: "Elite players don't try to get rid of nerves—they learn to love them." "You can't force yourself to be ruthless if it's not how you're wired." "Thoughts are just thoughts until you give them power." "If you don't meditate, you're probably meditating—just on the wrong things." "Winning isn't about outcomes; it's about getting one percent better every day." "Life is messy—and if it's not messy, it's lonely." "You're not the thinker of your thoughts; you're the observer of them." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Mental Game of Golf: Commitment vs. Desire 02:58: The Obsession with Monotony and Selfishness in Golf 05:48: Embracing Nerves: The Emotional Landscape of Winning 08:40: The Balance of Kindness and Ruthlessness in Success 11:24: Redefining Winning: Competing with Yourself 14:25: The Pursuit of Meaningful Happiness 17:30: Understanding Regret and Future Decisions 20:15: Navigating Life's Challenges and Growth 22:55: The Importance of Presence and Awareness 26:05: Meditation: A Tool for Clarity and Control 28:48: Thoughts and Their Power: The Nature of Mindfulness 31:35: The Inevitable Messiness of Life 34:26: Self-Awareness and Critical Thinking for Fulfillment 37:22: Integrating Meditation into Daily Life 40:01: The Journey of Learning and Unlearning 43:13: Final Thoughts: The Power of Thoughts

Scott Fawcett flips the script and interviews me—Paul Salter, The Golf Hypnotherapist—to pull back the curtain on what hypnosis actually is (and what it's not), how it compares to meditation, and why so many golfers struggle with their mental game and stay stuck even when they "know what to do." We dig into the real reason consistency collapses (hint: it's not laziness), what I mean by destructive mindset programs, and how fear of next-level success quietly drives self-sabotage. I also explain memory reconsolidation—why your past isn't "over" just because you've compartmentalized it—and how releasing old emotional charge can free up energy, focus, and execution when it matters most. In this episode, you'll learn: The real difference between hypnosis and the "pocket watch" caricature Why meditation helps—but why it often isn't enough for identity-level change How fear of success can be the hidden reason you stop doing what works What "memory reconsolidation" is and how it impacts performance Why the yips and performance anxiety often have roots outside golf The difference between surface-level tools vs subconscious rewiring Why stress is often an "energy leak" from unresolved internal conflict If you've tried sports psychology, visualization, breathwork, and self-talk… and still feel like there's something deeper running the show, this conversation will connect a lot of dots. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to get a taste of high-performance hypnotherapy and the impact it can have on your life? Click here to apply to work with me and I'll be in touch to get this call scheduled Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Hypnosis isn't mind control—it's a natural brain state you already enter daily. The work is simply learning to access it intentionally for change. Meditation and hypnosis overlap in brainwaves, but hypnosis adds direction. It's not just relaxing—it's targeted problem-solving and identity work. Most inconsistency is subconscious protection, not lack of discipline. When success feels unfamiliar, the mind pulls you back toward "safe" and predictable. Self-sabotage is often sneaky and cumulative. It shows up as small broken promises (sleep, meditation, workouts), not just obvious destructive behaviors. Next-level performance requires detachment from outcome. "Need to / have to / should" language is a dead giveaway you're gripping the result. Memory reconsolidation changes your relationship with the past. You don't erase memories—you drain the emotional charge so they stop hijacking the present. Your golf game carries your whole life onto the course. Unresolved family dynamics, identity pressure, and old emotional pain can create mental interference that looks like "golf problems." Key Quotes: "Hypnosis…it's not magic. It's not brainwashing. It's a natural state of mind." "If you know what to do and you're not doing it…that's a mindset problem." "Most people are afraid of next level success or being the best version of themselves." "The sneaky lowercase-s self-sabotage…is breaking the little promises you keep to yourself." "You can control your process…but not the outcome." "Memory reconsolidation is like opening a Word document and doing some editing." "You bring your whole self to the golf course…most of the stressors are completely unrelated to golf." Time Stamps: 00:00: Introduction to Podcasting and Guest Introduction 03:02: Paul Salter's Journey to Coaching and Hypnotherapy 05:52: The Role of Mindset in Performance 08:48: Hypnosis vs. Meditation: Understanding the Differences 11:45: The Flow State and Its Importance in Performance 14:34: Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Destructive Mindset Programs 17:21: Beliefs and Their Impact on Success 20:40: Memory Reconciliation and Letting Go of the Past 25:46: Understanding Memory Reconsolidation 27:33: The Impact of Traumatic Moments on Performance 29:39: Healthy Detachment and Mental Interference 31:08: The Importance of Process Over Outcome 33:07: The Role of Self-Reflection in Performance 35:03: Quality Over Quantity in Practice 37:03: Advice for Younger Self: Slow Down and Have Fun 38:56: The Value of Memories Over Material Wealth 41:28: Balancing Hard Work with Rest 43:37: The Unique Approach of Hypnosis in Performance Coaching

If you've ever told yourself, "I just need to stay calm," you've been sold a half-truth. Because elite performers don't win by being calm. They win by using emotion as data—and refusing to let it drive the steering wheel. In this masterclass conversation, I sit down with Mindset and Performance Coach Collin Henderson to unpack what actually separates average performers from elite ones: not talent… not even skill… but the ability to reduce internal interference when pressure spikes—on the first tee, on the back nine, or in the biggest moments in business. We break down Collin's "4 levels of confidence," the #1 performance killer (FOPO: fear of other people's opinions), why your brain is always trying to keep you safe (even when it sabotages you), and how to build unshakable confidence through identity, self-talk, and a repeatable process. In this episode, you'll learn: Why emotional regulation isn't "staying calm," but staying in control How to perform confidently without feeling confident Collin's 4 levels of confidence—and why most people get trapped in levels 2–3 The equation that explains choking under pressure: Talent + Skill – Internal Interference How to kill FOPO and stop playing golf (and life) like you're being judged by a panel Why identity is the true ceiling—and how to change it The simple framework to shift your "don'ts" into "do's" and stop carving failure into your nervous system Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. UPDATE: I have decided to start anew on Instagram. Follow me @thepaulsalter for your daily dose of high-performance wisdom, insights, and actions. P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Apply for 1-1 Mindset and Performance Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. More About Collin Collin Henderson is the founder and CEO of Master Your Mindset, LLC, and one of today's leading voices in mental conditioning. A former two-sport Division I athlete and top-ranked medical sales professional, he left corporate success to coach elite performers full-time. Acclaimed broadcaster Jim Rome calls him "an authority of what matters most — an elite mindset." Collin has authored seven books, hosts the Master Your Mindset podcast, and has trained #1 NBA draft picks, Heisman finalists, and top performers across pro sports and Fortune 500 companies. His trainings have been utilized by organizations like Nike, Microsoft, Salesforce, Amazon, and Novartis. A proud family man and dad of five, Collin also loves Fruity Pebbles, pizza, Ted Lasso, and cute puppy videos on Instagram. Learn more about Collin by visiting his website. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Emotions are information, not instructions; use them as data without letting them dictate behavior. You don't have to feel great to perform great; elite performers execute through uncertainty and discomfort. Most people operate with conditional confidence, while unshakable confidence commits without needing results or validation. Talent plus skill minus internal interference determines execution probability, not talent alone. Fear of other people's opinions (FOPO) quietly sabotages performance, even though others are focused on themselves. Negative self-labels reinforce a fixed identity and set a ceiling on performance. Scripted self-talk and repeatable processes prevent the mind from freelancing under pressure. Key Quotes: "Words are the language of the brain. Emotions are the language of the body."  "You don't have to feel great to perform great." "If you can't control your state, you can't control your performance."  "If you want to change your psychology, use your physiology."  "Talent plus skill minus internal interference equals execution probability."  "You never outperform your self-image."  Time Stamps: 00:00: Understanding Emotional Regulation 03:01: The Four Levels of Confidence 05:42: Building Unshakable Confidence 08:22: The Impact of Internal Interference 11:04: The Role of Identity in Confidence 13:42: Self-Talk and Performance 16:32: The Importance of Process in Golf 19:15: Cognitive Diffusion and Overcoming Interference 21:08: Reframing Self-Talk for Success 24:05: The Power of Self-Image and Self-Talk 27:52: Creating a Reset Routine for Performance 29:13: Managing Pressure and Mental Interference 32:44: Detaching Self-Worth from Results 36:40: Building a Balanced Identity 39:34: The Importance of Mindset Training 43:07: The Process of Figuring It Out

UPDATE: I have decided to start anew on Instagram. Follow me @thepaulsalter for your daily dose of high-performance wisdom, insights, and actions. Today's episode is a candid, no-BS monthly check-in on my own golf journey—the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable middle.  Over the last 30 days, I've made more long putts and birdies than ever… and also racked up a painful number of triple bogeys. It's been frustrating, humbling, and oddly encouraging all at once. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what's actually happening beneath the surface—technically, mentally, and emotionally—as I continue the pursuit of scratch. If you've ever felt like you're doing the work but the results aren't showing up fast enough, this one's for you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why progress often looks like "two steps forward, three steps back" before it clicks The real reason I'm hemorrhaging strokes off the tee—and how I'm fixing it How at-home putting became the biggest confidence (and scoring) game-changer The hidden cost of "playing bogey golf" as an identity and why I'm ditching it The exact process and weekly variables I'm tracking to stay committed and objective Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to get a taste of high-performance hypnotherapy and the impact it can have on your life? Click here to apply to work with me and I'll be in touch to get this call scheduled Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Progress isn't linear—breakthroughs and breakdowns often coexist in the same season. Consistency in fundamentals beats chasing new fixes when pressure exposes old patterns. Putting confidence can save rounds, momentum, and belief—even when ball-striking lags. Playing "bogey golf" as an identity can quietly cap your potential and reinforce settling. Real improvement requires patience, repetition, and staying committed when results feel delayed. Key Quotes: "I'm making more birdies than ever—and also more triple bogeys. Frustrating, to say the least." "If it feels comfortable, it's probably wrong—because comfort is usually my old pattern." "Putting has saved me more strokes than any swing thought ever has." "I caught myself playing not to screw up instead of playing to execute—and I'm done with that." "This game isn't just exposing my swing; it's exposing where I'm still settling." Time Stamps: 00:00: Paul's Golf Journey: A 30-Day Reflection 04:48: Setting Goals and Tracking Progress 10:05: Lessons Learned: Alignment and Technique 17:37: Overcoming Mental Barriers and Course Management 23:51: Commitment to Consistency and Practice 26:38: Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Mindset

UPDATE: I have decided to start anew on Instagram. Follow me @thepaulsalter for your daily dose of high-performance wisdom, insights, and actions. In this conversation, Chris Trottie (Trottie Golf) pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to walk away from corporate security, bet on yourself, and build a data-driven golf brand from scratch—all while being a present dad, husband, and serious player.  We dig into identity, pressure, energy management, and how to use data and equipment the right way to actually lower your scores instead of just chasing new gear. In this episode, you'll learn: How Chris reinvented himself from tour rep to global brand—and the identity he had to let go of. Why he spent five years quietly preparing his "rope bridge" before finally making the jump. How to use data to build unshakable confidence in your game and your business decisions. The overlooked power of time to think—and why surfing and golf became his "boardroom." How to set realistic expectations on the course using dispersion, not fantasy. Why your clubs should evolve as your handicap drops—and when to get re-fit. How to structure your days, guard your energy, and use "treats" and trips as ROI, not guilt. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Trottie Chris "Trottie" Trott is one of the most respected figures in the modern golf equipment world, known globally for his expertise in club fitting, product education, and tour-level equipment performance.  He spent more than 20 years with TaylorMade Golf, working directly with some of the best players on the planet as a Tour Representative and Senior Manager of Global Sports Marketing. During his tenure, he became a trusted resource for elite pros seeking precise fittings, equipment adjustments, and performance insights. After two decades inside one of the most influential brands in the game, Trottie transitioned into entrepreneurship, building Trottie Golf into a leading digital resource for golfers who want to understand their equipment on a deeper, data-driven level.  Through his YouTube channel—which now serves as his primary platform—he breaks down complex club concepts, showcases tour player insights, and educates everyday golfers on how to choose gear that actually improves performance. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Betting on yourself doesn't have to be reckless—you can quietly build the bridge, gather data, and step when the risk becomes irresponsible not to take. Data is the antidote to doubt in both golf and business; when the numbers prove it works, you stop negotiating with your fear. If your equipment isn't evolving as your game improves, your clubs become a bottleneck, not a competitive advantage. Most golfers don't struggle with talent—they struggle with expectations that don't match their actual dispersion and ability. Time isn't your most valuable currency—high-quality energy is, and every late night, drink, or distraction taxes your upside. You can't go far alone; building a trusted team around your strengths multiplies your impact while you stay in your zone of genius. Strategic self-rewards—cars, trips, retreats, club memberships—aren't indulgences, they're symbols and fuel that keep you chasing the next level. Key Quotes: "I realized the only way I was going to unlock my full potential was to back myself—and at some point, not jumping became the bigger risk." "None of the businesses I'm involved in work without me; once I accepted that, every negotiation and decision became a lot clearer." "If your expectations are higher than what the data says you're capable of, you're signing up for constant disappointment and terrible decisions on the course." "I spent five years building a rope bridge into a concrete bridge—by the time I stepped on it, I'd have been an idiot not to go." "You can work three weeks insanely hard and not see a nickel, then have five quiet days and everything hits—that's the reality of betting on yourself." "If you want your name to mean something in this game, you have to risk more than the person who's happy staying on the paved road." "Most people dream of success; the few who actually get it are the ones who wake up, protect their energy, and work hard at it every single day." Time Stamps: 00:00: Reinventing Identity: The Journey to Self-Discovery 02:55: Navigating Financial Risks and Commitments 05:47: The Importance of Time and Reflection 08:32: Confidence Through Data: Building a Brand 11:43: Embracing Pressure: Lessons from the Golf Industry 14:25: Taking Risks: The Path Less Traveled 17:30: The Value of Self-Investment and Experiences 22:04: The Importance of Personal Connections in Golf 23:13: Maximizing Productivity Through Rest and Focus 26:09: The Role of Relationships in Personal Growth 27:48: Challenging Industry Norms 28:25: Structuring Your Day for Success 31:44: Key Questions for Effective Club Fitting 35:13: The Evolution of Golf Clubs with Skill Development 37:03: The Synergy Between Coaching and Fitting 38:19: Setting Realistic Expectations in Golf and Life

UPDATE: I have decided to start anew on Instagram. Follow me @thepaulsalter for your daily dose of high-performance wisdom, insights, and actions. In this episode, I share a raw, unfiltered experience from a recent round at Tampa Palms that became an unexpected masterclass on self-talk. What started as a casual round with a random pairing turned into a front-row seat to just how destructive, exhausting, and performance-killing negative inner dialogue can be—especially when it's spoken out loud. We break down why your self-talk is the most influential coach you'll ever have, how negative inner dialogue tightens your body, shortens your patience, and drains your energy, and why swinging from harsh self-criticism straight into "toxic positivity" doesn't work.  This conversation goes beyond surface-level affirmations and into belief systems, destructive mindset programs, and the real cost of living inside a hostile mind. In this episode, you'll learn: Why negative self-talk acts like a terrible caddy that sabotages performance under pressure How self-talk directly impacts your body, decisions, focus, and energy levels The difference between productive neutrality and toxic positivity Why harsh self-criticism feels familiar—but isn't sustainable How core beliefs about worthiness and capability shape your inner dialogue Why inability to receive praise is a major red flag worth exploring How to begin rewiring your self-talk without forcing fake confidence If you've ever felt mentally exhausted, stuck, or frustrated despite knowing what to do, this episode will help you build awareness, reclaim control of your inner dialogue, and start playing—and living—from a calmer, more grounded, more powerful place. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to get a taste of high-performance hypnotherapy and the impact it can have on your life? Click here to apply to work with me and I'll be in touch to get this call scheduled Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: You have between 50,000–70,000 thoughts per day, most of which go unnoticed Self-talk is not about motivation—it's about direction Negative self-talk tightens the body and accelerates poor decisions Beliefs drive self-talk, not the other way around Toxic positivity creates internal friction and emotional resistance Neutral self-talk is often the most powerful place to start Your inner dialogue shapes your identity over time Key Quotes: "Your self-talk is the GPS of your life, not a cheerleader." "Most people don't quit because they're incapable—they quit because it's exhausting living inside a hostile mind." "Positive self-talk isn't about lying to yourself; it's about turning the volume down on fear." "You double bogey holes before you tee off with the way you speak to yourself." "Toxic positivity creates friction because it doesn't match what you actually believe." "You don't ignore negative self-talk—you react to it unless you train otherwise." "The most important relationship you have is the one you have with yourself." Time Stamps: 00:00: Introduction and Gratitude 04:46: The Impact of Negative Self-Talk 17:10: Understanding and Transforming Self-Talk 24:34: Conclusion and Call to Action

In today's episode, I sit down with Joe Wessel—former Florida State safety and coach, author of White Fang and the Golden Bear, and someone who experienced Jack Nicklaus's life, leadership, and family values up close. Joe shares what truly separated Jack from the rest of the golf world: his innate athleticism, his unusual ability to make multiple in-swing adjustments, and—most importantly—his commitment to never letting his family become collateral damage on his path to greatness. We explore how single-minded drive can fuel extraordinary success or quietly destroy relationships, and how intentional priorities, time management, and communication allow you to be fully present both at work and at home.  You'll walk away with powerful insights on leadership, family, legacy, and what it truly means to pursue excellence in golf, business, and life. In this episode, you'll learn: How Jack Nicklaus's intangibles, athleticism, and preparation created a different level of competitive advantage The difference between healthy single-minded focus and destructive obsession that destroys families How intentional time management and clear priorities allow you to be all-in at work and all-in at home Why perseverance after failure matters more than natural talent—on the field, in business, and on the course How to recognize the heroes already in your life and what that means for how you show up for your kids Why documenting your story—letters, journals, recordings—is one of the most powerful gifts you can give your family How faith, family, and purpose can become your north star for every decision you make in golf, business, and life Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Joe Joe Wessel is a former Florida State walk-on who became a special teams All-American, then spent 13 years coaching at the highest levels of college and professional football, including stints at LSU, Notre Dame, Cincinnati, and with the Philadelphia Eagles.  After leaving coaching, he built a successful career in banking and leadership, where he's known as much for his mentoring and "overpaid psychologist" role as for his business results.  Joe is the author of "White Fang and the Golden Bear," a powerful story that weaves together his relationship with his father, his time rooming with Jack Nicklaus's son Steve at Florida State, and the lessons he learned watching Jack compete, lead, and prioritize family. His work sits at the intersection of faith, family, leadership, and high performance—on the field, in business, and at home. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Some advantages are innate, but preparation, athleticism, and awareness are levers we can all train. Single-minded drive is powerful—until it turns your family into collateral damage. Time management is value management: if family isn't on the calendar, it won't happen. You don't need to be the smartest person in the room; you need to lead, delegate, and serve. Perseverance after failure can rewrite your story more than any early success ever will. Your greatest hero might already be in your house—often a parent quietly living their values. Faith and family can anchor you so deeply that success becomes an extension—not a replacement—of what matters most. Key Quotes: "Some people are just born able to see things others can't—but everyone can choose how prepared they are." "He wasn't going to let his family be the sacrificial lamb of his success." "I don't have to be the smartest person in the room—I just have to help people do what they need to do." "If your need is to satisfy your wife and your family with your time, you're going to make that happen." "My hero wasn't a famous coach or athlete—my hero was the man I lived with every day: my father." "If you don't tell your story and write it down, it's not going to get passed to the people who need to hear it." "Faith and family get you down the middle of the fairway and a birdie every time." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Competitive Edge: Preparation and Innate Talent 02:45: Balancing Family and Career: Jack's Approach 05:27: The Importance of Communication in Relationships 08:02: Time Management: Prioritizing Family and Work 10:39: Lessons from Complacency: The Journey of Perseverance 13:24: Insights from Jack Nicklaus: Preparation and Routine 18:08: The Role of Family in Success: A Personal Reflection 22:32: Finding Heroes in Everyday Life 27:09: Leadership Lessons from Coach Bowden 31:38: The Power of Prioritization in Life 35:50: Final Thoughts: Faith, Family, and Success

You will only rise to the level of success, money, and happiness you believe you are worthy of. That belief dictates how you perform under pressure, how much success you can experience, and whether you self-sabotage when you're outside your comfort zone. In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I dive deep into the power of beliefs, explaining how your internal thermostat—your self-worth—regulates your success in golf and life.  If you're stuck in a cycle of playing below your potential, struggling to maintain progress, or finding yourself folding under tournament pressure, it's likely because of deep-seated limiting beliefs that need to be rewired. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your beliefs set your limits for success How to assess where your internal thermostat is set When, how, and why your beliefs are formed The four categories of beliefs you possess and how you can find their origin Action steps you can take today to unlearn the limiting beliefs holding you back Get your pencils ready and start listening.  1-1 High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching: If you're serious about getting out of your own way and playing to your potential, click here to schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call to learn how I can help you make playing to your potential a habit.  Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Your Beliefs Set Your Limits: You won't outperform the level of success you subconsciously believe you deserve. The Upper Limit Problem: Achieving more success than you're used to triggers self-sabotage to bring you back to your comfort zone. Your Psychological Thermostat: Just like a home's temperature control, your subconscious keeps your success within a familiar range. Self-Sabotage Shows Up in Your Game: Blowing a lead, missing easy putts under pressure, or tightening up on the back nine are signs of belief-driven resistance. Your Beliefs Are Learned, Not Fixed: Most of your core beliefs about success, failure, and self-worth were formed before age seven. You Can Rewire Your Beliefs: With awareness and deliberate work, you can upgrade your belief system to match your goals. Hypnotherapy is a Powerful Tool: By accessing the subconscious, you can rapidly rewrite limiting beliefs and accelerate growth. Key Quotes: "You will only rise to the level of success you believe you are worthy of." "Self-sabotage isn't random—it's your subconscious keeping you in your comfort zone." "If you don't truly believe you can break 80, you'll always find a way to stay stuck." "Your beliefs aren't your own—they were shaped by your environment long before you had a choice." "The subconscious mind craves predictability, even if it means repeating destructive patterns." "The moment you achieve success beyond your belief system, your thermostat kicks in to cool you down." "You can rewire your mind to support your goals, but first, you have to recognize the patterns keeping you stuck." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Power of Beliefs 07:03: Understanding the Upper Limit Problem 13:51: Beliefs and Their Origins 20:53: Unlearning Limiting Beliefs 26:06: The Path to Transformation

Most golfers (and entrepreneurs) think resilience is willpower—grit, grind, hustle, "just dig deeper."  And under pressure, that approach eventually snaps… In this episode, Matt Caldaroni, CEO and Co-Founder of Molliteum, a performance resilience company, explains why resilience isn't a personality trait—it's a system.  We break down his three-part resilience framework (excitement, certainty, focus), why certainty beats confidence, how to build a pre-performance routine that actually transfers to the course, and why rest isn't laziness—it's how your nervous system locks in skill. In this episode, you'll learn: Why willpower fails when pressure spikes—and what to rely on instead Matt's resilience framework: excitement, certainty, and focus The difference between confidence and certainty (and why it matters) How to build certainty with process visualization + intentional reps Why "flow state" is preparing to let go—not chasing a magic feeling How elite performers detach self-worth from results using standards A simple pre-performance system: breathe, clarify, watch film, visualize Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Matt Matt Caldaroni is the resilience coach athletes call when their mental game is costing them strokes. He's worked with elite performers across the NHL, NBA, NFL, and pro golf, helping them master pressure, build unshakable confidence, and finally bring their best game into competition.  Matt is the CEO and Co-Founder of Molliteum, the performance resilience company trusted by athletes who want systems, not guesswork. He specializes in giving golfers the tools to stay calm, consistent, and locked in on every hole, no matter the stakes. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Resilience isn't willpower—it's having a system you can fall back on when adversity hits. Flow state is "preparing to let go," and it starts in practice—not on game day. Confidence is the outcome; certainty creates courage, and courage produces results. Excitement is built from identity + vision + purpose—the "core hunger" system. Certainty requires skill mastery and situational mastery (what to do, when, and how). Most "practice-to-performance" gaps are missing specificity or intensity in practice. Rest and recovery aren't optional—they're how learning integrates into your nervous system. Key Quotes: "Resilience is having the ability to adapt." "You need to build systems to respond to pressure." "Visualizing the process to get the outcome—that works." "Focus is a cherry on top." "It goes certainty, courage, and then confidence." "The higher you go, the more mistakes you're going to make—and you've got to accept that." "Become that person." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Myth of Willpower in Resilience 02:48: Building Systems for Success 06:03: The Role of Excitement, Certainty, and Focus 08:49: Understanding Flow State 11:47: The Confidence-Courage-Certainty Connection 14:37: Commitment and Core Values 17:28: Detaching Self-Worth from Results 20:26: Navigating Mistakes and Identity Spirals 22:19: Building Competence and Focus 23:33: Understanding and Managing Pressure 25:50: Reconditioning and Behavior Change 27:58: The Importance of Rest and Recovery 31:41: Developing Resilience and Adaptability 35:23: Transferring Skills Under Pressure 38:22: Action Steps for High Performance 45:41: Becoming That Person

In this episode, I challenge one of the most common personal development habits—affirmations—and introduce a far more powerful alternative. If confidence feels inconsistent… if discipline fades when motivation disappears… and if you know what to do but still struggle to execute, this conversation is for you. We explore why asking better questions—specifically yes-or-no "Will you?" questions—creates faster, more sustainable behavior change than statements, goals, or affirmations ever could.  Drawing on decades of behavioral research, identity psychology, and real-world golf and life examples, I break down how questions engage your subconscious, eliminate excuses, and leverage cognitive dissonance to pull you into action—especially when you don't feel like it. In this episode, you'll learn: Why affirmations often fail to create lasting behavior change How asking "Will you?" activates confidence and ownership The psychology behind cognitive dissonance—and how to use it Why yes/no questions eliminate excuses and justifications How identity-based questions reinforce discipline under pressure The subtle but critical difference between can I and will I How to use questions to execute when motivation is gone This is a tactical yet deeply transformational episode designed to help you strengthen discipline, upgrade your self-talk, and accelerate becoming the version of yourself required to achieve your biggest goals—on the course and in life. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Confidence is built through your relationship with yourself—especially your self-talk. Questions engage your brain more powerfully than statements or affirmations. "Will you?" implies ownership, commitment, and action—not possibility. Yes/no questions remove the mental loopholes that fuel excuses. Cognitive dissonance pushes behavior to align with identity. Discipline is strengthened when actions answer questions—not feelings. Asking better questions accelerates becoming who you want to be. Key Quotes: "Confidence is intoxicating—and one of its strongest predictors is how you talk to yourself." "Questions engage you; statements let you hide." "When you ask 'Will you?' there's no room for excuses—only action." "Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort that pulls you toward who you want to become." "Discipline is doing what needs to be done when you don't feel like it." "Your actions don't follow motivation—they follow identity." "The answer to who you'll become lies in the question 'Will you?'" Time Stamps: 00:00: The Power of Belief and Self-Talk 02:58: Welcome Back: The Journey of Self-Improvement 04:34: Upgrading Self-Talk: The Importance of Questions 14:17: Cognitive Dissonance: Bridging the Gap to Your Best Self 19:27: Taking Action: The Path to Becoming Your Best Self

Pressure exposes the truth. It reveals who's prepared, who's present, and who's pretending. And whether you're standing over an eight-foot putt to win the Masters or staring down a boardroom full of investors, the mechanisms that make you crumble — or come alive — are the same. In this powerful conversation, Derek Belch—founder & CEO of STRIVR, former Stanford kicker, entrepreneur, and competitive golfer—breaks down the psychology of high-stakes performance.  Derek shares what truly separates people who execute under pressure from those who collapse, why the myth of "balance" is misleading, and the mindset that's helped him build a pioneering tech company while simultaneously pursuing his quest to qualify for a PGA Tour event. In this episode, you'll learn: Why pressure is a privilege—and the hidden gift inside nervousness The difference between preparation that helps vs. preparation that hurts How VR training reveals the brain's decision-making blind spots Why perspective is the golfer's most underdeveloped mental skill How to reframe pressure as opportunity instead of consequence Why so many founders burn out—and how to avoid becoming one of them The real meaning of work-life balance for high achievers Derek's biggest lessons from pursuing scratch golf in his 40s Whether you're a golfer, entrepreneur, or high performer hungry for the next level, this episode will reshape the way you prepare, practice, and perform. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Derek Derek Belch is a former Stanford Cardinal kicker turned entrepreneur, best known as the founder and CEO of STRIVR, a pioneering virtual reality company that builds immersive training for NFL teams, Fortune 500 companies, and the U.S. military.  A multi-degree Stanford graduate with an MBA from USC, Derek left coaching at Stanford to launch STRIVR out of the university's Virtual Human Interaction Lab and has since been recognized on Sports Business Journal's "Forty Under 40" list.  Today, he balances leading STRIVR with his own quest to become a scratch golfer and hosts The Golfing CEO Podcast, where he explores the intersection of performance, leadership, and the game of golf. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Pressure exposes preparation — nerves mean you care. Simulation (or mental reps) accelerates decision-making under stress. Perspective is the most underrated skill in golf and entrepreneurship. Tournament golf is a completely different sport than casual golf. You must know who you are to handle long-term stress effectively. Balance isn't real; clear values and non-negotiables are. Founders and golfers fail when expectations and identity collide. Key Quotes: "Pressure is a privilege — nerves simply mean you care." "If I've put in the work, it's in God's hands after that." "Visualization is VR on steroids — but golf still demands feel." "You can play golf once a week and expect scratch results? Expectations matter." "Burnout isn't about hours; it's about losing alignment with who you are." "Tournament golf is a different sport. Completely." "Perspective is everything. Even par is not the definition of scratch." Time Stamps: 00:00: Pressure Situations in Sports 02:52: The Importance of Preparation 05:26: VR and Simulation in Training 08:20: Golf and Visualization Techniques 11:12: Reframing Pressure as Opportunity 14:13: The Concept of Balance in Life 16:53: Identity and Performance Under Pressure 28:00: Navigating Challenges in Business and Golf 31:35: The Importance of Self-Reflection and Commitment 35:36: Understanding Burnout and Stress Management 38:59: Perspective: The Key to Success in Golf and Business 48:17: Final Thoughts: Dignity and Playing Fast

In this episode, I want you to imagine this… You're standing at the base of a mountain on a clear day. You can see the trail. You can see the summit. That summit represents the next level of your life—the golfer you know you're capable of being, the business owner with more freedom, peace, and confidence. You know where you're going. You know what to do. And yet, every step feels heavier than it should. Not because you lack discipline. Not because you lack talent. Not because you don't want it badly enough. It feels hard because you're trying to summit your mountain while carrying a backpack full of invisible weight—unexamined beliefs, unresolved emotions, fear, pressure, and destructive mindset programs that quietly sabotage your progress. In this episode, I break down the mountain metaphor to show you why most high performers get stuck two steps forward, three steps back—and why the problem was never the mountain, the plan, or the strategy. We'll unpack emotional fog, destructive mindset programs, perfectionism, fear of success, and why self-sabotage often disguises itself as logic. Most importantly, I'll show you what it actually means to do the work required to clear the fog, lighten the load, and finally reach the summit you already know you're capable of climbing. In this episode, you'll learn: Why knowing what to do isn't enough to create lasting change How emotional fog robs you of clarity, confidence, and self-trust What destructive mindset programs are and how they keep you stuck Why self-sabotage often feels logical, responsible, or justified Where most high performers stop short on their climb to success How perfectionism and fear of success quietly drain your energy What it actually means to "do the work" to reach your next level Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: You're not failing because of a lack of discipline, talent, or information. Emotional fog makes even a clear path feel confusing and exhausting. The weight you carry matters more than the mountain you're climbing. Destructive mindset programs are patterned, predictable, and unconscious. Self-sabotage often appears as logic, timing issues, or "being realistic." Different results require thinking, feeling, doing, and being different. Clearing emotional baggage is the fastest way to sustainable success. Key Quotes: "You're not stuck because you don't know what to do—you're stuck because of the weight you're carrying." "The problem was never the mountain; it was the backpack." "Self-sabotage disguises itself as logic when your nervous system wants relief." "Emotion is energy in motion, and unprocessed emotion creates fog." "Your subconscious doesn't care if an emotion hurts—it cares if it's familiar." "If you want to achieve different, you must be willing to feel different." "Sustainable success begins when you stop dragging old patterns uphill." Time Stamps: 00:00: Climbing the Mountain of Success 04:39: Understanding Emotional Baggage 16:58: Identifying Destructive Mindset Programs 30:36: Taking Action Towards Change

If you've ever felt your heart race over a three-footer or a make-or-break sales call, imagine doing that with a camera pointed at your face and thousands of people listening… That's the world broadcaster and national champion golfer Emilia Doran lives in every week. In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, Emilia pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to stay composed on live TV, how she manages nerves under pressure, and why the same routines, reps, and reflections that make her great on-air are the same ingredients you need to perform on the golf course and in business. She shares how she redefined success after stepping away from professional golf, the emotional cost of perfectionism, and what it's like to build a powerful personal brand as a woman in a male-dominated sport—all while keeping joy, gratitude, and perspective at the center. In this episode, you'll learn: How Emilia handles nerves and stays authentic during live broadcasts The mindset shift that helped her stop chasing perfection and start playing freer Practical ways to simulate "18th-hole pressure" in your practice and prep How routines, reps, and reflection translate from broadcasting to better golf What Emilia's identity shift from pro-track golfer to broadcaster taught her about fulfillment How she defines a "successful" broadcast (and why saying less is often more) What it really takes to stand out as a woman in golf and claim your space with confidence Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Emilia Emilia Doran is a former high-level competitive golfer turned rising star in golf media. After a decorated junior and amateur playing career—including national-level events and standout performances in women's amateur golf—Emilia transitioned into broadcasting, where she has quickly become one of the most recognizable young voices in the sport.  She covers professional golf, collegiate golf, and elite amateur events, combining storytelling, high-performance insights, and on-course experience to bring a fresh, relatable perspective to viewers. Her unique blend of competitive playing background, media experience, personal brand building, and deep understanding of the modern golf audience has positioned her as one of the game's most influential emerging personalities.  Connect with Emilia on Instagram. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Treat the camera like a person and slightly exaggerate your natural personality so your true self actually comes through under pressure. Nerves don't disappear; they become more manageable when you simplify the goal—like aiming to say just one truly insightful thing each broadcast. Preparation is routine, reps, and rehearsal: organize your info, rehearse key lines, and build a repeatable process you can trust when the heat turns up. Reflection isn't just about what went wrong—intentionally review what you did well so you don't let one flub define the entire performance. Perfectionism feels like a superpower early on, but if you don't manage your expectations, it becomes emotional kryptonite that drains joy and confidence. Watching the best players closely teaches that even world-class golfers hit plenty of mediocre shots—and handle them with neutrality and grace. In both golf and broadcasting, success is often saying less with more impact and knowing when silence, presence, and emotion are more powerful than words. Key Quotes: "If I can just say one insightful thing to the audience, that's a win." "You might spend five hours on notes and only use ten percent of them—and that's okay." "Broadcasting is a job of imperfection; it's how you handle yourself when things go slightly awry that matters." "I had to accept that golf isn't my number one priority anymore—and still let that be okay." "The more I worked in golf, the more I realized I didn't want to feel emotionally exhausted all the time." "Watch a full round of one player and you'll see how many imperfect shots even the best in the world hit." "You might get an opportunity because of a box someone wants to check, but you stay because you do great work." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Art of Broadcasting: Managing Emotions Live 03:20: Nervousness and Performance: Tools for Focus 06:57: Simulating Pressure: Preparing for Live Broadcasts 11:35: Reflection and Growth: Learning from Broadcasts 14:53: Defining Success: What Makes a Great Broadcast? 18:47: Transitioning from Golfer to Broadcaster: Identity Shift 24:18: The Importance of Structure in Golf and Life 27:24: Navigating the Transition from College to Professional Golf 31:12: Emotional Maturity and Expectations in Golf 35:29: Building a Personal Brand in a Male-Dominated Sport 42:43: The Privilege of Playing Golf and Finding Joy

In this solo episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I'm sharing a raw, honest reflection on my 2025 golf season—what improved, what I avoided, where fear quietly ran the show, and why the theme of 2026 is simple: do the work. I walk you through the exact 15 reflection questions I challenged my newsletter readers to answer—and I read my own straight-from-the-journal responses. Then I close by defining the identity I'm stepping into in 2026: committed, intentional, and fearless—with a clear focus on becoming a longer hitter, sharper from 125 and in, and mentally tougher when things get uncomfortable. If you've been stuck in inconsistency, rushing your routine, or playing not to mess up, this episode will give you a mirror—and a reset. In this episode, you'll learn: The 15 reflection questions I use to audit a season and upgrade my golf identity Why false urgency destroys routines, decision-making, and scoring How fear shows up as "smart golf" (laying back, avoiding driver) and silently caps your potential The difference between practicing and practicing with intentionality How I'm building more presence and focus using a 3-hole check-in reset What I'm no longer willing to tolerate in my game—and why that line matters The identity shift I'm making in 2026: committed, intentional, fearless—and what that looks like in action Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  15 Reflection Questions: What do I want in 2026? What do I want more of? What do I want less of? What am I no longer willing to tolerate in my golf game? What patterns kept repeating for me this year—and why? Where did I abandon my standards when things got uncomfortable? What did I pretend "didn't matter," even though it clearly did? What am I still blaming on my swing that's actually mental or emotional? Where did fear quietly make my decisions for me this year? What did I avoid working on because it exposed my real edge? When did I play not to mess up instead of playing to perform? What part of my game actually improved—and why did it improve? What drained my energy on the course more than it should have? What would change if I trusted myself one level more? If nothing changes in 2026, what will that cost me—emotionally and competitively? Key Takeaways: You don't need more knowledge to reach scratch—you need consistent, intentional work. False urgency destroys routines, decision-making, and scoring faster than any swing flaw. Fear often disguises itself as "smart golf" and quietly caps your potential. Your routine matters most right after great holes and bad holes, not when things feel easy. Intentional practice creates predictable performance; random reps create random results. Emotional toughness is built by sitting in discomfort instead of numbing or avoiding it. Identity is the real upgrade, and in 2026 that identity is committed, intentional, and fearless. Key Quotes: "The theme of 2026 is do the work—not the easy stuff, not the surface-level stuff, the real work." "I already have the talent and capability to be a scratch golfer; inconsistency was the real issue." "I'm no longer willing to tolerate playing hurried golf with a false sense of urgency." "Fear made decisions everywhere this year, especially when I convinced myself I was being strategic." "Avoiding driver and playing not to mess up kept me playing par fours like par fives." "Vulnerability, ownership, and accountability aren't weaknesses—they're performance accelerators." "If nothing changes in 2026, it will cost me everything." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Importance of Doing the Work 01:40: Introduction to the Scratch Golfer's Mindset 04:29: Reflecting on 2025: Lessons Learned 08:37: Setting Intentions for 2026 14:25: Identifying Goals and Areas for Improvement 18:12: Overcoming Mental Barriers in Golf 23:18: The Role of Fear in Performance 28:33: Celebrating Progress and Growth 31:40: The Cost of Inaction 33:14: Upgrading Golf Identity for 2026

Your self-talk is the only voice you hear 24/7 — and most days, it's not that kind.  For many golfers and entrepreneurs, that inner dialogue quietly runs the show: it talks you out of what you know you should be doing, keeps you glued to comfort, and convinces you you're not ready, not worthy, or not capable of the next level. In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with mindset coach Trevor Tellin to unpack how your inner voice shapes your identity, your confidence, and your results — on the golf course and in business.  In this episode, you'll learn: Spot the invisible ways your self-talk sabotages your golf game and business. Use a simple "reward scale" to win more debates between the couch and the range. Personify your inner voices so you can work with them instead of being ruled by them. Create space between you and your thoughts so they feel less personal and more workable. Use Interloop to capture real self-talk data from your rounds and turn it into growth. Understand fear of success, over-identifying with "the grind," and how they keep you stuck. Build mental toughness and confidence through repetition, hard things, and self-compassion. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Trevor Trevor Tellin is a high-performance mindset coach who helps golfers master the mental side of the game so they can perform with confidence, composure, and clarity under pressure. Founder of Mindset Coach Trev, he works with competitive amateurs, college players, and professionals to help them overcome fear, perfectionism, and self-doubt—on and off the course.  With a master's degree in psychology and years of experience coaching athletes, leaders, and business professionals, Trevor combines sport psychology, neuroscience, and practical mindset tools to help clients unlock their full potential and play—and live—with greater freedom and fulfillment. Connect with Trevor. Connect on Instagram (mindsetcoachtrev). Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Awareness is everything — most self-talk patterns run on autopilot until you finally slow down enough to hear them. Every choice is an exchange; comfort feels good now, but it often carries the hidden cost of slowing or blocking your long-term growth. Scoring your choices helps you override resistance by comparing the real value of short-term comfort vs. long-term reward. Personifying your inner voices creates separation, making it easier to recognize which ones help you and which ones hijack you. Tools like Interloop reveal patterns you'd never notice on your own, giving you tangible data to change your on-course self-talk. Fear of success often drives sabotage — when you get close to the next level, the uncertainty of "what comes with it" pulls you back. Mental toughness and confidence come from repetition, doing hard things, and proving to yourself (again and again) that you can handle discomfort. Key Quotes: "We're so familiar with our inner voice that we don't realize how often it runs the show." "We rationalize sabotage because the excuses sound convincing coming from ourselves." "Every decision is an exchange — you can't get what you want without giving up something." "When you personify a limiting voice, it becomes easier to question and redirect it." "Turning a feeling into a character creates distance, and distance creates choice." "Most people envy the result but not the inputs required to reach it." "Mental toughness is being present in discomfort and choosing to lean in anyway." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Power of Inner Dialogue 02:45: Understanding Self-Sabotage 05:33: Personifying Inner Voices 08:14: Balancing Positive and Negative Voices 11:17: Creating Awareness for Change 14:06: Introducing InnerLoop: A New Tool 17:03: Education and Frameworks for Improvement 19:53: Unlearning Achievement-Based Identity 22:36: Invisible Patterns of Self-Sabotage 24:17: The Cost of Success 27:37: Overcoming Identity Limitations 31:13: Transferring Skills from Practice to Performance 33:20: Understanding Mental Toughness 38:31: The Power of Self-Talk and Kindness 41:47: It's Okay: A Perspective Shift

Most golfers aren't short on belief… They're short on behavior. They'll say they're going to qualify for a USGA event, win their club championship, or finally break 80 consistently… then practice "when it's convenient," avoid pressure, and wonder why their confidence keeps collapsing the moment things get uncomfortable. This episode is a gut-check (and a blueprint): being delusional in your thinking isn't the issue—being delusional without matching action is. Because that gap—between what you say you want and what you repeatedly do—is where frustration, self-doubt, guilt, and stalled progress live. You'll hear why high performers aren't just delusional in their goals… they're delusional in their standards, their commitment, and their consistency—and how to bring that same congruency into your off-season so next season finally matches the player you believe you are. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "big belief + small execution" creates anxiety—not confidence How to stop underestimating the action required to reach big goals The real difference between being interested and being committed Why small goals create negotiation, and big goals create clarity How to build identity through consistent, unreasonable reps What your subconscious does when you start standing out—and how to override it A simple weekly lens: "What would a scratch golfer do this week?" Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Key Takeaways: Delusional thinking is fun—delusional action is what changes your handicap. The real problem isn't lack of belief; it's underestimating the reps required. When your goals and habits aren't aligned, you don't feel confident—you feel anxious. Small goals invite negotiation; big goals demand commitment and simplify decisions. Identity isn't what you claim—it's what your calendar proves. The moment you stand out, your subconscious will try to pull you back into "safe." Your breakthrough happens when thinking, doing, and identity finally match. Key Quotes: "Being delusional isn't the problem. Being delusional without matching action—that is the problem." "Big beliefs, small execution. And this dissonance creates anxiety, not confidence." "The reason you're not achieving your goals isn't lack of capacity to believe—it's lack of action taken to align with the delusional thinking." "As soon as you accept how hard it is, the journey becomes easier." "Small goals require constant negotiation. Big goals demand full commitment." "Most people are delusional in their thinking, conservative in their action, inconsistent in their identity." "Your breakthrough doesn't happen when you feel confident—it happens when your thinking, doing, and identity finally align." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Delusional World of Jake Paul 02:39: Understanding Delusion in Action 07:50: The Gap Between Thinking and Action 10:24: The 10X Rule and Its Implications 13:21: Commitment vs. Interest in Goals 15:46: The Power of Delusional Thinking 18:35: Personal Stories of Delusional Action 21:16: Closing the Gap with Action 23:35: Final Thoughts and Call to Action