Distractions and Concentration Issues

[mc_runner]

Similar issues here. It's just a different mindset... if anything, the transition in the social league is easier for me. Everything is more about fun and less bowling-focused in general. Really its about having the best of both worlds... have fun (don't forget why you do it in the first place!) but also set your mind and concentrate again before the next ball. Now, if I could only practice what I preach...

[DukeDi]

Wow. Thanks for all the comments. I had a little better time this Week I shot 611. Kept it simple and made sure I kept my pre-shot routine consistent and took a few extra seconds to focus in my point of attack. I had some mechanic issue going on (Kept pulling the shot) but I didn't feel lost like I had in previous weeks and made most of my spares.

Like a couple folks who replied to this thread I too tend to think to much and just need to relax and stroke the ball. Concentrate on my shot and not worry about what other folks are doing. I can't control that anyway.

[GeoLes]

I just started bowling in a new league this season and the atmosphere is rather jovial - lots of high 5's and the like. I focus from pre-shot to finish right up to my return to my seat. I am thinking of what I did and what I should change and even if I miss a spare, I find myself being forced to high 5 someone before I can finish my thoughts.

Probably not a bad thing, but it is a concentration breaker for me because sometimes I will not remember the adjustument I planned for the next shot.

[fokai73]

"Does anyone have any tips on how to keep focused or how to manage the distractions in more relaxed bowling environment?"

There are so many factors why you are struggling. It could be a lot of mental issues or the amount of bowlers in the mix league vs. the men's league. The temp. humidity. the type of bowlers can play a role. You could make the big mistake by thinking that you can play the same line, stand on the same board, use the same ball, and other things you do in the men's league which you carry on to the mix league.

But that big of a gap in the first three weeks is huge. 218 to 178. It's a lot of mental game issues and spares.

I used to bowl 2 to 4 leagues a year, all at different houses, patterns, and surface types - wood, SPL, and anvil. From serious to fun mix, to scratch swiss leagues. I struggled, then I was given tips that helped me do well bowling at these places. He said:

1. accept the environment and conditions.
2. Find a trigger. Mine is feeling happy and blessed no matter what because I have life and I could bowl. My smile irritated my opponents too. lol
3. "just you and the pins" not the league and its bowlers
4. two positive talks - none of these: I should of struck, I hope I do well, dwelling on missed spares.
5. Just bowl.

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