Weather wise we’ve had a really good winter, but I’ve had my fair share of hiccups over the last year, making this winter a more difficult one on me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s all relative, I am happy, healthy and cared for but we live the lives we live and feel the way we feel, just because there is something worse happening in the world doesn’t de-value our feelings.
Which is why when Roo got a Grade 1 on his first ride of the season it felt extra special. If you’d told me three years ago that completing a 40km Novice would feel like a major milestone and something to celebrate I’d have probably laughed. I took the small things for granted and the last few years has taught me to enjoy the moment more and celebrate every success no matter how small.
I still have to remind myself out on course to enjoy the scenery, the route, the horse underneath me and not constantly think about the result, the speed, crossing the finish line, the next step. But I am getting better at it and Cannock, with its wonderful views, forests and blue sky, the fact it was the first ride of the season, was a perfect reminder to enjoy myself. I know it might sound odd, but usually I’m so wrapped up in my goals that I’m just waiting for the finish line and if someone asked me did you have fun I wouldn’t know how to answer….’Yes, I completed another Novice qualification’ would probably be what I would say, but now I think my answer would be ‘Yes, the views were beautiful and I enjoyed riding a well behaved horse who seemed to be having fun doing his job’.
This shift in mindset I think is due to a few things, firstly, the experiences of failure, trying and not getting anywhere, feeling dejected and defeated, although not fun at the time, they do make you appreciate the smallest gains, successes and triumphs. Secondly, I use the headspace app every day, not just to meditate (I still truly suck at that) but for all the little courses, pep-talks and my favourite, the wake-up section, which is like an educational little tit-bit every day. Both of these combined with being older and apparently wiser are shifting my focus. I still have firm goals, and I’m determined to achieve them, but I’m making an effort to have more fun along the way!
Beth Endurance 