The #1 problem most riders have is that they think "you’re not supposed to have any problems". But the problem isn't that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem. The only problem we really have is we think we're not supposed to have problems ;)
Riders want to have no problems in their lives as a horse trainer, but don’t realize that if this was the case they wouldn’t grow or become stronger. Remember, the path of resistance will always make you grow. Without problems we would not grow.
So for example:
First your horse is crooked, which might lead to many 'problems' such as:
- He is tense whilst being ridden.
- He pulls on one side of the bit all the time.
- He doesn't want to turn to one side.
- He is very stubborn and lazy.
- He strikes or even rears or bucks.
- Perhaps he is often lame when you ride him.
But because of this problem, you found Straightness Training. So you get rid of these problems.
Then there's the next challenge: you need to teach him the haunches-in. In the beginning you can't figure out how, and your horse doesn't respond, but you break through this 'obstacle', and there you are: your horse is doing the exercise with ease on the whole long side! And he benefits a lot from it!
So the journey continues, and one day you can do the whole sequence of ST exercises in walk, so there's the next challenge: trot work! And there will be a day you are challenged by figuring out how the do the flying change. What a great problem to have!
So you'll get better quality 'problems' along the way!
The secret to becoming a good horse trainer is to constantly be stretching. Stepping outside your comfort zone.
You will never be without challenges, issues, problems and adventures! And the good thing is... you will learn a lot from it!
So take care not to perceive problems to be bad.
What if problems were always gifts?
It’s up to us to find the gifts. To solve the mysteries, to discover the hidden lessons, to find keys that open the door to the next level!
And once we get to the next level, we will get better quality problems ;)
So don't aim to be without problems, just get better quality problems, and don't forget to reframe them is 'gifts', as 'challenges' as fascinating 'adventures' to learn from!