When was the last time you went out and just played golf? What I mean
is just went out to the course, didn't look at any yardage markers or
course guides, and hit each shot as it comes. Yardages are great, but
I see far too many players get bogged down by too much information. It
may sound crazy, but at least once a month go out and play 18 holes
with half a set of club. Choose either odd or even irons, one wedge (
pitching, sand, or lob ), and one wood ( driver or 3 wood ). Once you
have chosen your club setup, try playing all your shots without
looking at any yardages. Just walk up to your ball, and ask yourself
how far the shot looks, how far it feels. I watch player all the time
get the exact yardage, check the wind, and never come close to hitting
the right shot. Playing without yardages will free up your swing and
force you to play golf. Playing with half a set will also force you to
hit shots. Meaning if you need a 6 iron and all you have is a 7 iron
or a 5 iron, you will either have to hit the 7 iron hard or swing the 5
iron easy. And if you are really adventurous, try playing 9 holes with
three clubs and your putter. I have all my good junior players do this
at least two to three times a month. You chose the three clubs you
think you will need to get around the course. Last time I did this, I
chose a 3 wood, 5 iron, and an 8 iron. Again, the idea behind this is
to force you to hit shots and not think about the mechanics of your
golf swing. Trust me, if you try this on a regular basis you will
improve your ability to hit more shots on the course.