The Things I Wish I Had Known Sooner
When it comes to horseback riding there are so many things that I had to learnt he hard way. I keep thinking, if only I could go back in time, but I cannot. So instead, I will pass this info on to the next generation of horseback riders. I pray you heed it, but in my heart I doubt that you will, because this wisdom has to come from within. No matter.
1. Horses are not just a sport, or a passing phase. They are a lifestyle. Chances are that if you are reading this, you have the calling. You cannot just turn your back on horses. You have the fever. It's in your blood, and there's nothing more in this world that can make you happier that the sniff of a horse's coat. Don't forget that. When times are low, always go back to the barn. Horses will make you feel better.
2. Just because you feel so good around horses does not mean that they have to be your whole life or your career. It's okay to just love them in your spare time. There's no judgement in that. In fact the happiest people are those that are well-rounded with other hobbies. The focus should not be in one field. Expand, but always come back to the barn.
3. No one lives forever, including you and including your horses. That's okay, that's how it works. But, do not take them or anyone for granted. They can be gone in a blink of an eye.
4. Stop comparing yourself to others. A broke rider struggling to buy new boots can be a far better rider than one you who invests in boots that cost more than a truck. Relax. In the end, the horse doesn't care. In fact, that truck can still get you to where you want to go, just like the expensive truck (and trailer). All trucks break down.
5. Don't sweat the small stuff. In fact, if you compete, it's just a time, it's just a judge's opinion. There's no need to stress yourself out over it, and there is no need to stress your horse over it. It's about the fun in the experience. Are you enjoying what you do? What is the end goal?
6. Don't ride full of emotions. Rather, let the horse wipe those emotions away. Focus on the heart, not necessarily the mind. However, do let the mind do the decision making, with a touch of the heart's opinion.
7. And last of all, never be afraid to ask for help in bettering your horsemanship, but do pick who you ask carefully. Even the riders at the Spanish Riding School coach each other all the time. Don't be afraid to give help if someone else asks. We're all in it together.
I could go on, but those are what I feel are the most important ones.
1. Horses are not just a sport, or a passing phase. They are a lifestyle. Chances are that if you are reading this, you have the calling. You cannot just turn your back on horses. You have the fever. It's in your blood, and there's nothing more in this world that can make you happier that the sniff of a horse's coat. Don't forget that. When times are low, always go back to the barn. Horses will make you feel better.
2. Just because you feel so good around horses does not mean that they have to be your whole life or your career. It's okay to just love them in your spare time. There's no judgement in that. In fact the happiest people are those that are well-rounded with other hobbies. The focus should not be in one field. Expand, but always come back to the barn.
3. No one lives forever, including you and including your horses. That's okay, that's how it works. But, do not take them or anyone for granted. They can be gone in a blink of an eye.
4. Stop comparing yourself to others. A broke rider struggling to buy new boots can be a far better rider than one you who invests in boots that cost more than a truck. Relax. In the end, the horse doesn't care. In fact, that truck can still get you to where you want to go, just like the expensive truck (and trailer). All trucks break down.
5. Don't sweat the small stuff. In fact, if you compete, it's just a time, it's just a judge's opinion. There's no need to stress yourself out over it, and there is no need to stress your horse over it. It's about the fun in the experience. Are you enjoying what you do? What is the end goal?
6. Don't ride full of emotions. Rather, let the horse wipe those emotions away. Focus on the heart, not necessarily the mind. However, do let the mind do the decision making, with a touch of the heart's opinion.
7. And last of all, never be afraid to ask for help in bettering your horsemanship, but do pick who you ask carefully. Even the riders at the Spanish Riding School coach each other all the time. Don't be afraid to give help if someone else asks. We're all in it together.
I could go on, but those are what I feel are the most important ones.