It wasn't long after Al and I began working on my golf game that he shared a kernel of wisdom that sounds crazy but is nearly always true. It is this: Whatever problem you're having with your game, do the opposite of what you think you should do to fix it. Sounds nuts, but it works. Want some examples to try on the practice tee?

If you're fighting a fade or a slice, aim right.
What?? It's true. Your sub-conscious mind will work for you in this case. Aiming right will encourage you to use an inside-to-out path on the forward swing, straightening the ball or even give you a slight draw. Same works for hooks; aim left. You'll "hold on" more with your hands on the way down, delaying the hit. You'll hit it straighter AND longer.

Here's a related tip: If you're worried about hitting it into trouble, aim for the trouble! Like if there's water left off the tee, aim for the water…your mind will think "fade" and you'll fade it back to the middle automatically.

To hit the driver longer than normal, like on a reachable par 5, swing a bit easier (Again, the opposite of what common sense would suggest). Nicklaus has said and written the same thing. Why does it work? Relaxed muscles are strong and fast, tense muscles reduce speed)

When the pressure is on, take less club and swing harder. Again, the opposite "answer" is correct. If you are choking or just nervous, you'd think it would be better to take plenty of club and take an easy, relaxed swing. Nope!! If you're nervous, this is the time to under-club and swing. (Why do you think the pros hit what sounds like a crazy iron to go a certain distance?)

If you're having trouble staying focused over the course of the round, let your mind wander. We're all different mentally, but few people can maintain focus through the whole round like Hogan did. In tournament golf, the idea is to be focused during each shot, not for the whole day! There's no need to be Zen-like and drive your friends nuts. Geiberger whistles tunes, or find someone in the gallery to visit with, during the heat of the battle. True, he's a naturally friendly guy, but these little breaks from the game helped him be really focused when it counts.

There are tons of other examples. Just remember, whatever is going wrong, do the opposite of what you think you should do and you'll probably be right.

Other Golf Tips:

• Practice
• Adjust Ball Position
• Relax