So ask the expert!

Welcome to my column here in Costa Del Sol Golf News.
Every edition, I will give my view on some of the mental aspects of the game of golf that prevent players progressing. At the bottom of the column you will find my e-mail address and each edition I will answer a couple of the best questions I receive. My aim is to get you playing better and enjoying the game just a little bit more! Let’s start with a question from Simon in Sotogrande.
“When does confidence become arrogance?
This question could relate to a golfer very much in the news – Mr Poulter!
I have heard lots of people describe Ian Poulter as arrogant But isn’t he just an example of someone with extreme confidence?
The difference for me is the way other people view the comments that are made. Does the individual talk down the efforts of others or do they over state their level of ability. If people hear either, they tend to feel the person is arrogant. Ian Poulter may have been guilty of over-stating his ability when he claimed that when at his best, “there is only me and Tiger” However, look at him now! Poulter
has got better and better and is currently ranked 5 in the world. The question we should ask is why shouldn’t he think very highly of himself and use his supreme selfconfidence to underpin his efforts.
He also draws attention to himself with his loud outfits, memorably those union jack trousers!
Something you may not know about Ian Poulter – he was 4 handicap when he was 18 and can be used as great inspiration to young players who believe in themselves.
I say good luck to him! The game needs characters and a few who believe they can be the best and genuinely strive for that.
A question?
stuart@thesportsacademy.org