While owning and caring for horses can teach many lessons, they also teach us a lot about ourselves. Individuals who are involved in the horse show industry have the opportunity to be recognized for their hard work through awards and titles. Even though the show pen can give us the recognition that we all seek, many personal lessons can be learned in the process before we even get to show off our skills. Below are four of the qualities that we gain from showing horses, are there others that you can personally identify with? Please let us know by commenting at the bottom of this story or on our Facebook page.
1) Determination
Horse shows can teach us to be very determined individuals. From practicing the same pattern over and over again to adding a new event, horses can teach us that determination is the key to our success. Upon entering the show pen, we must guide our horses through the class, determined to communicate properly. Some days are easier than others. Determination to overcome obstacles and perform to the best of our abilities is something that horses often lend us.
2) Work Ethic
At horse shows, it always seems as if the work is never done. Even when the show is over and all chores are completed, there will still be horses to feed, stalls to clean and polos to wrap. Though, the work may seem to be tireless, nothing teaches a good work ethic more than horse shows. With countless hours in the saddle, many riders attempt to prove that they are worthy of a coveted spot at the World Show. Though picking up the required points may take multiple attempts, most riders would have it no other way. Funny how it seems that the riders with a strong worth ethic always enjoy more time in the saddle and greater success with their equine companion.
3) Patience
Standing in a line waiting to longe for two hours, often in the hot or cold, does not sound appealing, but it does teach patience. Horse show competitors must learn to have patience with their horses in a multitude of ways. Just like people, horses often may need to be corrected before they understand a new concept. While instant gratification is typically a preference for most people, horse people will understand the gratification of finally achieving that, “A-Ha! Moment”. It is when everything seems to start to come together, whether it be a new class or something you have always wanted to improve on.
4) Sportsmanship
Unlike many other competitive sports, we rely solely on our horse’s performance to win. Horses are not robots; they have their good and bad days along with different quirks and personality traits that set them apart from one another. No matter who comes out on top, horse shows can give us all a lesson on sportsmanship. While most riders have many friends outside of the arena, they can also be our competitors once it becomes show time. Most of us are very competitive by nature, but it is important to be happy for one another. When the inevitable loss comes, we must lose with dignity. Not only is being a good sport important, but it is also good to offer encouragement to our friends when they achieve their goals.
