There is no substitute for experience and being around game,there is one thing that I have found immensely helpful,not caring so much whether I take an animal or not.I give my hunting everything I can from a time and effort perspective and whatever happens,happens.Some of the best things that have ever happened to me in my life have happened once I let go of being so concerned about the result and just focused on the preparation and enjoying the entire experience.I hope this makes sense to anyone reading this.
For those of you who get tired of me relating deer hunting/archery to golf...I apologize, in advance. But....this method of thinking parallels a WONDERFUL golf philosophy. In either endeavor.....we practice....we become proficient......and we attempt to make our shots "automatic". We're attempting to REPEAT our proven form. When the time comes to do so.....we have to relenquish the thoughts of the "outcome"....and stay in the moment......"trust" ourselves......and not care.
Before I get rolled on the internet.....we all CARE about what happens to the animal That's innate and a 'given'). But we've heard MANY successful hunters advise us to not look at the antlers when a trophy animal comes in (and yes....EVERY deer....regardless of headgear....is a 'trophy'). We're asked to treat every animal the same .....and trust our ethics, mechanics, etc... . We CAN'T get caught up in the "outcome". It's absurd to think we haven't been through the thought process of said.....but that should be part of our overall plan.....and shouldn't come into play at the time of the shot.
Controlling this aspect of hunting/shooting/shot selection/overall decision making.....is what I hope to get better with, every year. We have to trust that we've done the correct things leading up to the moment of truth......and let go.
tsoc....I believe you're right on track.