In episode 257 of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, David discusses pre-shot routines in sport. With an emphasis on golf, and the importance of a personalised routine to enhance performance. Key elements include the decision making process, assessing one's state of mind, taking practice swings in a purposeful way, visualizing the shot, focusing on the target, focusing your attention ahead of execution and the use of trigger words.

Key Learning Points:

• Write down key steps of your personal pre-shot routine to improve your understanding.
• Routines need practice and rehearsal if you are going to take them into competitive environments successfully.
• Using trigger words that direct your attention towards timing can be beneficial like "smooth swing", "commit" or “trust” to enhance focus. 
• As humans we can get comfortable quickly therefore adjusting your approach from time to time is important to guard against complacency and to improve focus
• The approach discussed is applicable to various sports, not just golf.

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To Listen to Golf Related Podcasts

Ep017: Gio Valiante - How to Play Fearless Golf

Ep101: Compilation – 25 Mental Game Secrets to Improve Your Golf

Ep118: Dr Bob Winters – How to Help Golfers Overcome their Mental Game Challenges

To Listen to Other Podcasts to Help You Improve Your Decision Making

Ep254: David Charlton - How Can I Perform Better More Consistently?

Ep250: Ruth Chiles and Alessia Bruno – Optimising Your Potential By Understanding Your Nervous System Better

Ep210: Anna Parker-Naples – Why Breathwork is so Powerful

Relevant Blogs And Resources To Help Your Judgement

Blog: Motivation vs Commitment | There is a big difference 

Blog: Make Better Decisions to Help Your Sport Performance including 

Blog: Does Your Warm Up Influence How You Perform?

Helpful Resources To Help Your Decision Making  

Driscolls Model of Reflection

Performance Profiling: When You’re Looking For A Quick Boost

Handout: Marginal Gains Refining Your Approach