Take your time, no rush

Sometimes the person who puts the most pressure on us is ourselves! Unless you have a goal with a defined date in mind, such as winning gold at the next Olympics, then I would recommend taking your time, take baby steps. Keep a diary so that you can look back and see how far you have come. 

Remember that you may not always experience an upward curve. Life sometimes throws curve balls which are invariably learning experiences that we need. See these curve balls as opportunities to develop and improve rather than setbacks. It is ok to have a day that isn’t as good as yesterday, don’t beat yourself up about it, tomorrow is another day and another opportunity. 

Set yourself up for success, do whatever you can to minimise the challenges until you are ready, take baby steps. Always ask yourself ‘how can I make this as easy as I can for myself so I succeed?’

Finally avoid comparing yourself to others. Celebrate your own journey and your own success. Feel proud if you achieve your goal in a year regardless of whether anyone else has done it in 6 months. 

‘Take the time it takes so it takes less time.’ Pat Parelli

What this means is if you rush things you may well find that overall it will take you longer. Push yourself too hard and you may blow the progress you have made to date and be back to square one. Gently does it. 

To you and your confidence
Caroline Andrews - Horse Rider Confidence Specialist