Have you ever been at the driving range and watched as one ball after another flew off into the wild, blue yonder. You may have a slice if your golf ball is always skipping towards the trees to your right. It can feel like chasing butterflies at times to perfect your swing. Fear not, we are about to embark on a journey together in order to find a golf swing doctor. Remember, this is not brain surgery even though it may feel like it at times.

Let’s start with grip. You wouldn’t grip a kitten too tightly, or your morning cup of coffee like a brick. You should have a firm grip, but not so tight that you can’t move your fingers. Imagine shaking hands comfortably with someone, without cracking their knuckles. This is your goal. Assess whether your left-hand grip is too weak or strong. You should adjust until your left hand feels like it could be held for hours. But you must love your hand just as much as a good nap.

Have you ever imagined your swing as an enormous circle? Geometry has everything to do with golf, you may be thinking. You’re in trouble if your swing looks more like a lopsided ellipse. Aim for a smooth, continuous arc. Imagine an old record gently spinning–your path should follow the same rhythm.

Posture. When you are preparing for a good shot, who needs Pilates? Your back should be angled naturally and your knees bent slightly. You don’t want to look like a bear that just emerged from hibernation, but rather a gazelle in the savannah. As you address the ball, make sure your body is aligned with the target. You can create parallel lines between your shoulders and feet, as if you were on a moving walkway at an airport, heading straight home.

The backswing. Flow. It’s about flow! Do not rush. This is not instant coffee. Slowly lead with your shoulders as if you were turning to say “See you Later” to a friend who is behind you. You’re only making it harder for yourself if you whip the club back quickly. This could result in that annoying over-the top swing. Slice city!

Think of the transition from upswing to downswing as a graceful, flowing dance. Watch as your arms follow your hips. Hips, then arms. Hip, then arms. Repeat it in your head to reinforce the message. Concentrate on the movement, even more than anything happening above.

What is the best position for your ball and how should you hold it? This is the last piece to a culinary masterpiece. The golf ball should be placed closer to the left foot, but without waving goodbye. This optimizes the flight and direction of the golf ball, which will ensure a more precise aim. Stop being another wayward slicer and get off the assembly lines.

Confidence. Confidence is the key. This game is just as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Relax. Even Tiger Woods had some mornings when he didn’t do it right. Even if you laugh at yourself for your Hollywood swing, it’s okay to do so.

Even if you feel like you’re mining for gold in a desert, keep practicing. Most importantly, continue swinging. Sometimes, a good dose of stubborn perseverance is all it takes to cure a slice. Here’s to a straighter and more beautiful drive. One swing at atime! Enjoy your golfing!