How to Avoid 5 Common Rider Kill Joys & Performance Enemies

1.) Basing self-worth on riding performance:

 Far too many riders place their self-worth in the hands of how well they ride on any given day.  Even top executives, seemingly successful at everything they touch, are humbled by equestrian sports. 

Great riders know that mistakes and disappointments are part of the game.  They can eat dirt one day and win the next. They know ups and downs are part of the sport.  Great riders learn from mistakes and disappointments rather than questioning their worth as human beings.

Keep riding in perspective by knowing that you are more than your performance.

2.) Believing misery is a prerequisite for success: 

Riders tend to be reserved even when they win.  They don't slap each other on the butt like football players or jump up and down giving each other high fives screaming with excitement. Instead they clap politely, maybe let out a little "whoop" or two and then go on to their next activity.  

In most equestrian sports riders are taught to be stoic. But sometimes they practice such extreme stoicism that they annihilate all positive emotions. Research has shown the body and mind physically perform better when athletes are happy. 

Great riders embrace the inherent difficulty of equestrian sports and know that in order to succeed it is necessary to enjoy the process.  So loosen up that "stiff upper lip" into a smile from time to time. You'll quickly find that by allowing yourself to enjoy your sport you will train more effectively and perform better.

3.) Succumbing to Butterflies: 

Feeling nervous or "having butterflies" is as common as grass. But many riders hate them! In reality, "butterflies" are actually adrenaline. It is the body's way of getting primed for an event or exciting challenge.  Great riders know that the right amount of adrenaline can greatly enhance athletic performance.

Great riders don't get distracted trying to stomp out butterflies -- they take advantage of them.

4.) Perfectionism: 

Riding tends to foster perfectionism due to the simple fact that even the best riders can be better; there is always room for improvement. Great riders understand that striving for their best is different than trying to be perfect. They know that if they get caught up in trying to be perfect they are more likely to make mistakes. 

Let go of the idea that perfection exists and instead strive for your best. In the process you'll find that you ride more intuitively and have greater access to all of your abilities.

5.) Being out of balance emotionally, mentally and/or physically:

When riders are unbalanced in any of these areas, they simply don't have the reserves to withstand the demands riding and competition present. It's like trying to cash a check when there are no funds available. The check isn't much good. 

Great riders know that they must meet their own basic needs to ride their best. For example, they don't allow themselves to become too hungry, angry, lonely or tired. They know that only when their basic needs are met can they fully draw on their skills and abilities.  Make meeting your basic needs a priority.  Even if it takes extra time, know that your efforts will be worth the benefits to your riding and overall well-being.