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Think Above Par

Sometimes you just need someone to explain why your golf brain does what it does.

Think Above Par is where Kathy talks about the thoughts, emotions and patterns that show up on the golf course—and what you can do with them.

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All episodes (305)

Library updated

Episode 221

I Want to Love the Game… But I Suck

If you’ve ever said, “I want to love golf, but I suck,” this episode is for you. We’re digging into why your relationship with golf can feel so up and down—and how tying your love of the game to your performance is messing with your experience. You’ll learn how to: Stop making your score mean something about you Detach your self-worth from your handicap Enjoy golf more—no matter how you’re playing This isn’t about fixing your swing. It’s about fixing the way you think. Be the first to know about upcoming programs Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 220

Think Like Rory: 6 Mental Game Moves You Can Use Today

In this episode, I’m breaking down what Rory actually said after winning the Masters—and more importantly, what it means for you. Because here’s the truth: what Rory is doing to manage his mind is the exact same work you're learning here on this podcast. You don’t have to be a tour pro to use these tools. You just need a brain (check), a love for golf (double check), and a willingness to practice (triple check). This episode is your reminder that: ✅ You’re not behind ✅ You’re not broken ✅ And you are 100% capable of training your brain just like the best in the world We’ll walk through 6 specific things Rory shared—and how you can use each one in your own game: Remind Yourself Who You Are – Confidence starts with identity. Have Your Own Back – Trust yourself to handle any situation. Use Power Phrases on Purpose – Don’t wing it. Write them down. Make Mistakes Neutral – Two double bogeys? No problem. Play for a Feeling, Not a Score – Set your emotional goal first. Battle Your Brain, Not the Course – Stay in the moment—again and again. If you play golf with a human brain, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen in and remind yourself: you’re doing the work, and it’s working. 💪🏻 Get 50 Power Phrase for the Course HERE Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 219

The Mental Golf Sweet Spot Between Try-Hard and Don’t-Care

Ever find yourself a little too intense on the golf course? This week’s episode is all about finding that elusive mental sweet spot—the space between trying too hard and not trying enough. Whether it’s a local scramble, a one day qualifier, or a partner event that really matters to you, the pressure is real. Kathy breaks down: Why intensity can sabotage your swing The danger of the mid-round “baby quit” What happens when motivation turns into mental overload How to set an intention that leaves you 18 Proud—no matter the score Tune in and learn how to stop white-knuckling your round and start showing up as your best, most mentally dialed-in self. Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 218

How to Make Your Pre-Round Warmup Work for You

Is your pre-round warm up inconsistent or non-existent. In this episode, Kathy gets real about pre-round warmups. Spoiler alert: it’s not about finding the magic swing or hoping your confidence shows up. Kathy shares how to keep your warmup neutral—like stretching before a workout, but with less "I’m totally going to crush it today" vibes. She breaks down how to avoid the trap of searching for evidence that you're ready to play (because that’s just a setup for disappointment) and how to focus on simple swing thoughts and tempo instead of worrying about perfect mechanics and perfect shots. Tune in for some lighthearted advice on getting your head—and body—ready for the course by making it a simple and workable routine for you! Join the Think Above Par Club here Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 217

The Mental Game of Playing With Better Golfers

Feeling jittery about teeing off with golfers who seem to have their game dialed in way tighter than yours? Don’t sweat it! In this episode, I dive into how to shake off those nerves and shift your mindset to play your best, no matter who’s in your foursome. We'll explore three game-changing ways to recognize and reroute the thoughts and emotions that may be sabotaging your swing. Ready to turn intimidation into inspiration? Let’s tee up and transform your game! Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 216

Changing How You React to Bad Golf Shots

Do certain bad shots make your head explode? Maybe it’s a chunked wedge, a skulled bunker shot, or that dreaded three-footer that refuses to drop. Whatever it is, your relationship with bad shots is affecting your game—and your sanity. In this episode of Think Above Par, we’re diving into how to shift your mindset so that bad shots don’t send you spiraling. You’ll learn: ✔️ Why golf is really a game of managing misses (not just hitting great shots) ✔️ How your thoughts about a bad shot impact your next swing (and your score) ✔️ A simple strategy to go from frustration to neutral (no, you don’t have to love bad shots) It’s time to stop arguing with reality and start playing with more confidence. Tune in and let’s reframe your misses! Need more mental game help? Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 215

Practicing Hard but Not Getting Better? Here's Why

Not getting the results you want from your practice sessions? In this episode of Think Above Par, Kathy dives deep into the mindset needed for effective practice sessions. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls and frustrations at the range, and learn techniques for managing your mental approach to practice. Kathy shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on creating a healthier relationship with practice, ensuring that your time at the range translates into better performance on the course. Tune in to reshape how you think about practice and accelerate your progress in golf! Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 214

How to Change Your Golf Results

Tired of creating the same results over and over again in golf? In this episode, Kathy dives deep into the concept of self-awareness, specifically focusing on the consistent results golfers create for themselves. She discusses how recognizing patterns and understanding the thoughts behind them can lead to better performance on the course. Kathy shares examples such as struggling on par 3s, distance issues, mindset problems, and finishing poorly, encouraging listeners to get curious about their results rather than just accepting them. She emphasizes the importance of identifying and shifting unproductive thoughts to change outcomes and improve golf performance. For more guidance, check the links below for further resources and support. Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 213

How to Make the Most of Your Practice: Trackman, Simulators and Perfectionism

Are your practice sessions frustrating? This episode takes a closer look at why stepping away from the relentless pursuit of perfection and frequent simulator sessions can be beneficial for your golf game. Kathy explores a revelation from one of our guests, who found that playing on the actual course improved her game more significantly than traditional practice on the range. The conversation delves into the idea of 'diminishing returns'—how too much focused practice without a clear purpose might actually hinder progress. Kathy emphasizes the importance of setting specific goals for each practice session, incorporating mental strategies, and applying skills in real game situations. It’s about striking the right balance between technical drills and practical experience, and learning that real improvement comes from adapting to the natural, imperfect elements of golf and life. Join us to discover how you can enhance your practice efficiency and enjoy the game more fully. Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 212

How to Play Your Best Golf

Ever catch yourself saying, "I just want to play my best today"? It sounds like a solid goal, right? But what does your best actually mean? In this episode, I break down why this common phrase can secretly add pressure to your game—and what to focus on instead. I’ll walk you through: ✔️ Why this thought might not be as useful as you think ✔️ What your best really looks like (hint: it’s not perfection) ✔️ How to set yourself up to access your full talent on the course If you’ve ever felt frustrated by not living up to your “best,” this episode is for you. Let’s redefine what playing your best really means so you can step onto the course with clarity, confidence, and a bit of freedom. Unleash Your Golf self-paced program is available at: https://www.unleashyourgolf.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Private coaching starts with a Free Discovery Call here: Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 211

Hidden Golf Thought Errors that Keep You Stuck

Ever catch yourself saying, "Here we go again" or "I always struggle with my putting"? These are thought errors, and in this episode Kathy dives deep into the mental missteps that can sabotage your golf game. Learn to identify and shift these harmful patterns to transform despair into hope and underperformance into success, both on the course and in life. Whether it's overcoming habitual negativity or reshaping your mental approach, Kathy provides actionable strategies to help you steer clear of these common mental traps and play your best game yet. Website: KathyHartWood.com Be the first to know about programs: KathyHartWood.com/join Mastering Your Golf Brain Book and Workbook Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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Episode 210

Who to Blame For Your Golf Results

Ever feel like your golf game is out of your control? Many golfers struggle with externalizing blame—whether it’s the wind, the caddie, or that noisy spectator—which leads to a frustrating experience on the course. This blame game not only ruins your day but prevents you from improving. When you give away your power, you miss the chance to truly grow in the sport, stuck in a cycle of reaction instead of action. Tune into this transformative episode where Kathy explores the concept of "Golf Responsibility." Learn how embracing 100% responsibility for your actions and reactions can shift your perspective, enhance your performance, and radically change your experience on the golf course. It’s time to take the driver’s seat in your golf game and enjoy the journey with empowerment and joy. Website: KathyHartWood.com Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Receive free weekly mental golf tips HERE How many shots is your mental golf costing you? Take the quiz here: quiz.mymentalcaddy.com Continue your mental journey at Your Mental Caddy HERE Mastering Your Golf Brain - A Guide to Self-Coaching Mastering Your Golf Brain - The Workbook Mental Golf Journal - A Range for Your Brain Are all available at KathyHartWood.com/book Email Kathy at Kathy@KathyHartWood.com Website: KathyHartWood.com

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