Past, Present and Future
As 2017 comes to a close, it’s time we reflect on the past and begin to plan for the next year. And there is just something so exciting and adventurous about tackling new goals! Setting your sites on bigger, better challenges when January 1st hits. For many equestrians and equine enthusiasts, it’s with our beloved horse at our side. Whether you’re preparing for the next show season, training a green horse, or just want to spend more time with your horse, it’s going to mean overcoming obstacles. Because we all know that has something has interfered the year before. So, what can we do to REALLY achieve these goals? And how can we meet our hearts greatest desires for 2018?
The Usual...
We all know the gym story. The gyms fill up in January as people set their own personal fitness goals, and feel that New Year enthusiasm. But as February approaches it becomes harder to make it a priority. Go to the gym at the end of February, and suddenly no one is around. Don’t let the gym story happen to you and your horse! Equestrians are strong willed folks. Have you seen us handle a 1000 pound animal? But we’re still susceptible to letting life interrupt our riding goals. So, to get the right start this New Year, here are 3 things you can do to REALLY obtain your horse goals in 2018!
1. Don’t Just Set New Goals, Make New Systems
Goals are great. They give us an idea of where we want to end up. The issue is, we humans tend to think getting there will be much easier than it actually is. So set aside some time to write down 1 goal, then write down every step to get there. And be sure to consider all those variables that could get in the way. Want more time at the barn? Need to work more on those patterns? Want a better barrel time? Awesome! Write down the what, where, why, how and when. And make the plan to get there!
2. Slow and Steady Wins the Race
We all know the story of the tortoise and the hare. But many of us still end up being the hare with our personal goals. When it comes to working with horses, it is especially important you are methodical, strategic and work to build your patience. So don’t rush training for both of you. And plan for small, daily achievements you know you can achieve rather than overextending yourself. Allow your horse the needed time to absorb new training. Give yourself the time it really takes to enjoy the ride. And always remember to breathe!
via GIPHY
3. Change Up the Routine!
One goal killer can be the new plan you worked so hard to create becomes an old boring routine. Instead of doing the same thing everyday at the same time, create a schedule that changes things up weekly. Because maybe one week your horse just needs groundwork. And another you try different a discipline a couple days, just for giggles. And if you only go trail riding, perhaps give a show a go? The options are endless, don’t make things rigid. You AND your horse will thank you!
Cheers to 2018!
Here at
COAT DEFENSE®, we have BIG goals for 2018. Our first will roll out in January, where we will begin introducing you to the riders we sponsor and their amazing stories. The second, we want to eliminate Rain Rot FOREVER. And the third, we want to help you change YOUR routine. How? To FINALLY PREVENT your horse from getting painful issues like rain rot,
mud fever, scratches, cannon crud, ringworm, girth galls, blanket rubs, or any other horse skin related issue. Here’s to 2018, Happy New Year! The Coat Defense Team
