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As we embark on our horse journey wide-eyed like a child often we aspire for greatness. We want to be world-class eventers, competitive barrel racers or do liberty like that person we saw on Instagram that one time. However, many equestrians are in for a rude awakening. You probably find that you spend more time working to pay for your horse and cleaning up after them than you do moving towards your dreams!
Throw in the ups and downs of horse ownership— everything from a bad day (or month!) to injury and inclement weather and you likely feel your dreams slipping through your fingers. Or worse— you've given up on them entirely!
Such is the plight of the equestrian. Luckily, New Year's is right around the corner (or not if you happen to have found this article some other time of the year) and there is no better time to get yourself and your horse back on track.
But, how is that possible? You are probably asking.
One five-letter word, my friend: GOALS
The Power of Goals
GOALS are a magic little thing that can help us achieve more. And that claim is backed by science.
In 1990 scientists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham published the leading study in goal-setting. Their research found that setting tangible goals can boost job performance and increase motivation.
In a busy world that often pulls our attention in dozens of directions (from work to school, T.V., social media, and more) goals force us to define what is most important. Thus, goal setting can help us hone our focus and build momentum towards achievement.
How Goals Can Help You and Your Horse Achieve More
For many of us, horses are a hobby. And even though we have big aspirations, we have work, family, and chores to fit our horses around.
And often our dreams can fall by the wayside as we struggle to find the time to make real progress around life. Add in our horse's aliments and off days and moving forward can feel impossible. Unless, of course, you have a plan to focus your energy and motivation to make the most of the time you DO have.
Goals... force you to clearly define what you want to achieve.
Goals... give you a path to follow when you feel stuck.
Goals... give you a sense of urgency to keep moving forward.
Goals... generate the motivation to keep going.
And for equestrians, goals can be the difference between making real progress toward our dreams or staying stagnant forever.
How to Set Effective Goals
Before you jump into planning what you want to achieve in 2024 (or whenever), remember that not all goals are created equal. Effective, achievable goals follow proven criteria. Use these three steps to create goals you will achieve this year.
1. Use the SMART format
SMART is a proven goal-setting formula that helps you write goals in an effective, motivating, and achievable way. The SMART goal system is pervasive and used across industries and institutions— because it works!
SMART goals are...
Specific- Set a definitive goal for what you want to accomplish.
Measurable- Have an objective way to measure success.
Attainable- Make your goals realistically achievable.
Relevant- Set goals that fit with your lifestyle and journey.
Time Bound- Set an end date to achieve by
Check out last year's blog post about SMART Goals to learn more about writing goals that stick.
2. Always write them down
Grab a pen and paper or use a computer, but make sure your goals are written down. Not only will this force you to clearly define what you want to achieve, but it also cements the idea in your brain.
Write down your goals with the word will. I will learn to post the trot smoothly. My horse will be cantering three laps around the arena. This works on a subconscious level-- it will happen.
Consider posting your goals somewhere you will see them every day (in your tack room, on your horse's stall, in a training log) so you are always reminded of them.
3. Make an action plan
Maybe one of your goals is to be able to jump two feet. However, if you have never jumped that high before, there are smaller steps you will need to achieve along the way.
You will probably need to...
Gain stability in your jumping position
Be able to trot and canter ground poles
Be confident jumping 12 inches, 18 inches...etc.
Writing out an action plan as you set bigger goals will give you a clear path to follow— just like a shaping plan for your horse!
Consider writing your action plan as a checklist, so you can check off each step as you achieve it. This will help you track your progress, showcase how far you've come, and stay motivated— especially if you are working towards a large goal.
What Should I Make My New Year's Resolutions About?
New Year's is a special time of the year when we all collectively start thinking about personal growth. As an equestrian, I always start thinking about where I want to go with my horses in the next year. But it is also a good time to reflect on yourself, your fitness, your education and make a plan to better yourself for your horses.
When setting your equestrian New Year's resolutions, consider your aspirations in four main areas:
Training Goals
What would you like to teach your horse this year? What skills need improvement? Are there any tricks you want to work on? Any complex skills that need shaping?
Riding Goals
Where would you like your riding to go? Any new skills you want to perfect? Shows you want to go to? Vices that need to be worked on? New things you'd like to try?
Fitness Goals
How can you make yourself stronger and more stable in the saddle? Do you have any weaknesses to improve? How can you make yourself a better athlete for your horses?
Learning Goals
How can you expand your knowledge in the equestrian world? Are there any classes you want to take? Methods you want to try out? Books you want to read? Do you want to improve your skillset in classical riding? Positive reinforcement?
Setting goals is a great way to get your riding and training in 2024 off to a great start. Check out my tailored 2024 New Year's Resolution Guide to write goals that will set you up for success.
2024 New Year's Resolution Guide
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