In the horse world, often times you will hear claims that someone couldn’t do something for a number of reasons. Whether it is lack of time, money, or any other excuse, people can always find someone or something to blame for their lack of success. In the world of horses, it has been proven time and time again that the most expensive horse or shiniest tack does not always win the buckle. Instead, as the saying goes, champions are often made when nobody is watching.
The 10 things listed below are all keys to success that require absolutely zero talent and money. These tips were inspired by a post from the Facebook page, Mindset of Greatness which was shared by Olympic Gold Figure Skating Champion Scott Hamilton. We adapted these general tips to work specifically for those in the horse world.
1. Being On Time
In a world full of a hundred distractions that keep us from what we love, being on time in any situation is becoming more and more rare. Punctuality is something that will not only set us apart from others, but it will also make us feel better about ourselves. Being on time gives us more time to practice, more time to prepare, and, in the end, it also demonstrates that we are dependable and committed to our sport. Equestrians who are eager and conscientious enough to arrive on time, demonstrate that they are dedicated to doing what they love. These are the same kinds of people who will often sacrifice other activities for their equine partner.
2. Work Ethic
A strong work ethic is a skill that we can all continuously strive to improve, both on and off of our horses. To be successful, one must put in the work beforehand in order to prepare us for any thing that arises when show time comes. Those with a stronger work ethic are more likely to get further in life, as well as in their riding. The ability to work on a specific skill until it is perfected shows that those who are willing to spend their time working for the win, will always come out on top whether it be at the show, in the workplace or at home.
3. Energy
It is no secret that the energy we give off to our horses and other people around us is contagious. Being positive and spreading positive energy to those we spend our time with, including our horses, helps to create a better and more positive environment for everyone. Along with spreading good energy, having the necessary energy to compete is something else we must keep in mind. As riders, we must take care of our bodies to remain in peak physical shape. Eating healthy and getting enough sleep will help us not only feel better, but also perform at the top of our game along with our horse.
4. Effort
It is not ironic that the old saying, “even if you fall, you must get back on the horse” came from horseback riding. There’s also the saying, “the harder you work, the luckier you get.” The more effort someone gives doing what he or she loves, the more opportunities they will gain to succeed. To apply the most effort and to never give up is something that requires zero talent, but will always be a helpful strategy when trying to achieve any goal. From putting in effort in practicing patterns to getting back on the horse after a bad ride, any additional effort spent will only catapult a rider toward their goals and also prove that they have the heart and grit to be a champion.
5. Body Language
When riding horses, body language is a key skill. No matter what event or discipline you choose to compete in, the rider must have strong contact with their horse. Subtle leg, hand, and voice cues help guide our horses through the paces all while seeming relatively silent to outsiders. The close connection that we have with our horses can be proven through our bond and communicated through our bodies. These almost invisible body movements are something that we can all practice and only get better with each ride and time spent with our partners.
6. Attitude
In any situation, a positive attitude is a key ingredient to success. Thinking positively and having a good attitude can be beneficial, especially in the horse world. In a sport where we pay for a judge’s opinion, it is no secret that there will be just as many losses as wins along the way. From bad rides to bad barn days in general, always looking on the bright side of the situation will be uplifting to you and all of those that surround you. Creating optimism and handling negative situations in a healthy way will lead to positive outcomes and a better learning situation for all of those involved.
7. Being Coachable
A student that is coachable exhibits all of the traits on this list. To be coachable, one must also be able to handle constructive criticism. In such a competitive atmosphere like horse showing, we will often be told how imperfect we are. These comments and critiques can either break us or push us further to practice harder and reach towards our goals. Taking notes from every trainer, judge and onlooker will help to create a coachable athlete who will end up learning more than someone who already believes that they know everything about the sport. The easier that one is to coach, the more they will learn.
8. Passion
Being passionate about something gives us the drive that it takes to want to succeed. Having passion is what sets apart the ordinary from extraordinary in any sport, especially horseback riding. Passion allows us as humans to go above and beyond what we think we can do, and takes us to the next level that was just beyond reach. Great passion also pushes us to achieve our wildest dreams and become mentally happier people as we continuously strive towards making our dreams into reality by doing what we love.
9. Doing Extra
Going above and beyond in any situation shows that we have what it takes to step up to the plate and give everything we’ve got. While some may think that going the extra mile may seem over the top, this is often the little push that others need in order to go from average to beyond. No matter if it is in lessons or other work behind the scenes, giving everything one has will benefit them in the long run. Competitors who do everything in their power to be successful will often do anything to better themselves as well as their equine athlete.
10. Being Prepared
A lot can be said for someone who comes to a horse show prepared. From newbies to seasoned veterans, anyone who takes the necessary time to prepare will excel. From being organized to being on time, being prepared is a skill that can help anyone and everyone. Not being prepared will cause the opposite. Being ready at the start cone, which every judge will tell you is the best way to make a good first impression, is a form of being prepared. Printing off patterns and studying them before getting to the show can give us an extra step on our competition. Allowing yourself a little extra time in the morning at a show can help you not feel rushed for your first class. Being prepared is to be ready for anything thrown in your direction. Preparation is a key to success in order to be more efficient, more independent and more suited for competition.
With many steps to becoming successful, many of these skills can be applied both with horses and in life as well. For someone who wishes to be successful, they will stop at no end to better themselves and those around them. Successful people often do not have to be given the best of things in life, but they will make the best with the things they are given in order to achieve their goals.
