Expert Advice, From the Trainer
Unrealistic Training Expectations
Feb
When it comes to training horses and our own journey in the equine world, why is it that we find ourselves constantly comparing to those on social media?
Sometimes we forget that the Olympic riders, driving champions and best horsemen and women, all have good days and bad.
We are so quick to post the good days to our socials, and celebrate; yet are just as quick to punish and chew down on ourselves for one bad training session.
Here is the thing, the horses never follow the book. It is important to always be patient and kind with ourselves whilst training, because it is just that, training and learning. And it is impossible to make mistakes whilst you’re learning. Forgive yourself for the mistake and learn from it. So that didn’t go well today, that’s fine. Learn from it and move forward and keep in mind what is on social media very rarely includes the bad training days.
If you have had a bad training day, here are some tips from myself and my journey:
- Be kind to yourself.
- Always give your pony a pet and thank them for taking part.
- Stay away from watching social media and comparing.
- Take a moment to sit and reflect and look at what you learnt or what you can take away from.
- Try again tomorrow.
We all struggle with self doubt and criticism in some aspect. It is just as important we don’t get stuck in the pit of self doubt and criticism. We wouldn’t do it to a friend, so why do we do it to ourselves?
We all start somewhere and no two journeys will look the same. Be realistic when setting your goals, sometimes, walking that straight line is a great enough goal and achieving it should be just as celebrated! Set you and your pony up for success by being kind and patient; set attainable and realistic goals. Remember, it takes time, it is a learning journey for us and our ponies, and sadly we can’t talk to them and explain what we need/want from them. Every day is a chance for new beginnings and fresh starts, so utilize it. And lastly, remember to have fun and enjoy it!
JH Equine Virtual Carriage Driving Coaching
Website: www.jhequinevirtualcoaching.square.site
Email: JHEquineCoaching@outlook.com
This is a truth in all that we do – not just training our equine companions! We can learn as much from the mistakes/bad days as from the good. Thanks for sharing.