Why do riders take things so seriously? Lighten up! It’s supposed to be fun!

I’ve seen many riders over the years who agonize over their sport, putting pressure on themselves, their horses and their trainers. For most of us, if our horse finishes 1st or last at a show is irrelevant in the big picture. Most of us aren’t going to the Olympics. Even if we have the talent, we may not have the money or the connections. So…if you’re not going to the Olympics any time soon, lets put your riding into perspective.

The main objective of your riding should be fun for both you and your horse. With these new goals in mind, reflect upon your riding. Does a bad ride ruin your day or can you look at as an opportunity to learn? Do you have a timeline in your head for certain dressage accomplishments? Now think for a moment, is this timeline really necessary? How does your heart rate change if you leave your timeline open ended? Do you feel more relaxed? By setting goals without the pressure of time, you will more than likely reach your goals faster and have more fun in the process.

The other thing I wanted to share in this post is that riding doesn’t have to be a miliary operation. Experiment with different disciplines, go to fun shows, audit clinics about natural horsemanship, arrange despooking clinics, read books! Make sure at least a couple rides per month add variety and sheer joy, whether it is a group trail-ride or teaching your horse how to bow. Take the shackles off – play with your horse, laugh and share your passion for the sport with your friends. These are the memories that you will treasure, not your 300th attempt at a proper shoulder-in.