The shaft of the club should point slightly left of center. A proper grip is essential to a good takeaway. Make sure that you're holding the club in the fingers of your left hand. The clubface is perpendicular to the target line. From this square setup position, you're ready to initiate the backswing.
Tension is the enemy of a good golf swing.
Be sure to always follow your preshot routine and keep your hands and arms loose by waggling the club a couple of times as you prepare for the shot. Many golfers like to begin the swing with a forward-press of the hands, hips or right knee. If you don't currently use a forward-press, experiment to see if it helps you begin the swing more smoothly. The first move away from the ball is crucial. I teach students to feel the hands, arms, shoulders and club working together away from the ball.