10/10/2025
"Lessons are unlikely to stick unless they are repeated.
Behaviors are unlikely to stick unless they are repeated.
Love is unlikely to stick unless it is repeated.
The practice solidifies."
This is a quote from James Clear. I do not know if any of you have read his book, Atomic Habits. What an awesome book. If you have not yet read it, pick up a copy and have a read. So many of his principles can go into our horsemanship. How often are you riding? Once a week? Are you hoping for 100% improvement with the riding ethic you currently have? Skills in horsemanship take time. They are built like a log home. First you pour a foundation and let it set. This is not done in one ride. This may be done with months’ worth of consistent rides. Next you painstakingly place logs to build each wall. With each consistent ride, you take small steps toward improvement. Maybe you only improve 1% each day, but over consistent time you are improving. You are also building a bond with your horse. You are now expecting only 1%, which allows you and your horse grace to make mistakes with less frustration when the one ride does not create 100% improvement. Lastly, do not forget your roof. This is the person whom you have chosen to help you school your horse. Choose wisely a reputable successful person who has put in the time and effort for success. This is often not a friend, but someone who has achieved success through hours of their own hard work. Someone who can watch you ride and correct the mistakes, you may not even know you are making. Yes, you may want that new tack set, but hours with the right trainer will benefit you more than the tack set. This way, when you walk out the front door you yourself have created, you are outfitted with success. One consistent ride after another!
Happy Riding!