Keeping Perspective to Accomplish Goals

Too often folks have a laser focus on a task rather than assessing being able to step back and notice if they have the necessary pieces in order to present a scenario to the horse.

Here are some common examples:

Trying to get the correct canter lead, but not noticing if they can first influence the horse's thought, shoulders, hips, and energy level at the trot. 

Wanting to "conquer" riding past a scary object, but not noticing or putting value to the initial indicators when the horse is beginning to show concern or his breathing changes or his energy increases. 

Attempting to improve the quality of the halt while sitting in the saddle, but not noticing that while tied, groomed, tacked or mounted the horse is continually moving. 

Riding out with the goal of achieving going a farther distance away from the barn area but not noticing the wiggling movement and inconsistency in the horse's energy because his brain and body are thinking about his herd at the barn. 

How can you better prepare yourself and your horse for any scenario?

First, think through how and what you want to communicate with the horse.

Next, assess how your horse responds to your aids. If he is defensive or unclear, you need to fix this first, otherwise, you have no way to communicate effectively.

If your horse shows resistance or unwillingness, the initial task or goal needs to be put on the back burner, until you have addressed each thought or behavior your horse has tried. 

Once he has gone through his "checklist" he'll then be able to "hear" what you are offering. 

IF you have a way to influence the horse's thought and energy with effective communication, and the horse is mentally available to hear your opinion and guidance, what "it" may be that you are presenting, is no longer a "big deal."