Too many ideas.

Question
Hi Eddie, I have been playing for about 6 years, h'cap of 10.  Typical round 10 over on front level par on back or 12 par's, couple of bogies, couple of birdie's, and a quadruple bogey. Can shape the ball anyway I like. Good distance. But forget about consistency! As you will see it's probably not surprising - I seem to go through about 10 ideas in one round.

Just can't get a stable swing concept and stick with it.  Had several (very varied & mixed messages) lessons from pros, listened to nearly every every instructional guru who has made a video.  Main problems are backswing thoughts one-piece v's early set; both work but one-piece seems better for longer shafts, early set good for short irons.  Also how much width? how much lag (I can consciously retain a lot and really snap the club in there) ect ect ect...

Answer
Hey Jamie:
Sounds confusing to me too.  What you need is to go back to fundamentals.  I would take you back to the simple things, grip, balance, short game.  I would make sure your fundamentals are solid and that you practice them until you're sick of them. I would stress improving your short game, really spend 70% of your practice time on your short game.  As a 10 handicap, you hit it OK.  But too many thoughts leads to inconsistency, doubt, and no confidence.  Instead, work on one swing thought during a round, whatever that may be.  Stay committed to each thought, keep it to one, and start focusing more on the target and what you want to do with your ball.  Visualizing each shot flying exactly how you picture it will help a lot as well.  Forget about all your swing thoughts about lag, and wrist cock and all that crap.  You know what works, get back to basics and let your instincts take over for a while.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member