Rediscovering the Joy of Horse Showing: Why Taking a Break Can Revitalize Your Passion

“When it’s not fun, we go home.” This mantra, repeated by my parents during my early horse showing days, underscores a vital lesson in equine sports: the importance of enjoyment and passion. Even as a young rider, I struggled with self-imposed pressure and felt disappointed when I didn't achieve the results I desired. Holding yourself to a high standard is admirable, but it’s also crucial to step back and remember why you fell in love with horse riding in the first place.

From Passion to Burnout: A Journey Through the A-Circuit

Fast forward a decade, and I found myself entrenched in the bustling A-Circuit world. Each spring, I worked tirelessly in the North East, and winters took me to Wellington, FL. My role as a groom suited me well—I adored the horses, was meticulous, and was always eager to please. However, perfectionism, while driving success, also led to burnout. Riding five horses a day, waking up at 5 AM, and maintaining a rigorous schedule started to take their toll. The passion I once had began to wane, and what was once exhilarating became a chore. After seven years on the road, the relentless sunshine and high expectations had left me weary.

The Importance of Taking a Break

After taking some time off, I began to miss the daily interactions with horses. Recently, I revisited Wellington, the place where I had spent countless hours, and it was a refreshing experience. This trip allowed me to reconnect with my favorite horse from my previous job—an exceptional jumper with a unique personality.

Reconnecting with Your Horse: A Personal Experience

I had the chance to visit a beautiful property in Wellington, away from the usual Hunter/Jumper A-Circuit scene, and see my old equine friend. This horse, a standout from my first week of employment, had transitioned from jumping in the 1.30m classes to competing in National Grand Prix and Junior Jumpers. Despite his quirky and sometimes challenging demeanor, he was endearing and memorable.

Seeing him in his new role as a Dressage horse, happy and healthy, was a deeply gratifying experience. It reminded me of the importance of taking time to appreciate the journey with your horse. Whether it's enjoying a trail ride, learning a new discipline, or simply spending time grooming and hand-grazing, these moments are invaluable.

Embracing the Joy of Equine Sports

In the competitive world of horse riding, it's easy to get caught up in the relentless pursuit of perfection and forget why you started. Taking breaks and shifting your focus can help you and your horse stay engaged and enthusiastic. It’s essential to maintain the excitement and joy that drew you to the sport initially.

Conclusion

The equine world can be demanding and overwhelming, but it’s vital to remember to enjoy the process and celebrate the bond with your horse. Taking time to refresh and rediscover the joy in riding can lead to renewed passion and progress. Whether you’re a rider, trainer, groom, or amateur, appreciating the journey with your horse is crucial for long-term satisfaction and success. There will always be opportunities to win blue ribbons, but fewer chances to cherish the unique bond and growth you share with your horse.

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