Learning the SKILL of blazing your own path.
The equine industry is one of many where it is easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing and start to question yourself. Especially in the heat of competition.
Whether it's the warm-up arena or the competition arena. You will likely feel the pull to ride, train, feed, supplement, and be like others.
Don't get me wrong, I strongly believe in the power of learning from others. However, you don't need to become the same person they are. Learn to allow yourself the space to do what you have practiced at home and make changes later on if you feel necessary. The last place you should choose to make changes is when you are already at the competition.
Learn to recognize your nerves and remind yourself to stick with YOUR plan. Ride like YOU. Make changes when necessary, but not in the heat of the moment.
-LD