Do You Enjoy Your Horse?

Most people own horses because they receive a certain amount of fulfillment from being around them and caring for them.  Yet sometime, somewhere we have all been less than happy with our horses.  Unfortunately, some people find themselves in situations that take all the joy and happiness out of horse ownership. Well, there is good news for those that have slipped into the rut of horse ownership and are looking for a way to rekindle that happiness.

You may be glad to know that 50% of your happiness comes from genetics.  You may be dismayed to learn that only 10% comes from everyday life circumstances.  That leaves you with 40% that comes from what YOU do everyday to be happy.  Here is where you have to be careful.  It is true that external things can brighten your day, but a new saddle or boots are temporary delights.  The trick to happiness is in maintenance.  Like losing weight, you not only have to lose those extra pounds you have to maintain your desired weight.

If you feel you have gotten too busy to enjoy your horse, start with a task, such as brushing your horse’s mane, that you can easily perform every day.  Just being around your horse for 10 minutes a day doing something you like will help revive the passion that first drove you to own a horse.  Then commit to one larger task a week, such as bathing or taking your horse for a walk and letting it eat grass.  Finally, schedule one day a month to spend with your horse.  It may feel forced in the beginning, but you will soon find both you and your horse will begin to look forward to the special time you spend together.

When you feel the negative thoughts start up:  "You need to ride him, he's unhappy if you don't ride him," or "He thinks I hate him, because I don't spend more time with him," or "He's so special, he deserves a better home.",  remember you are taking steps to improve the relationship right now.  We all have down time and you are taking an active approach to rekindle your passion.  When you are ready you can lengthen your visits with your horse but be careful not to over commit.  That will only form negativity when you cannot make good on them.  Start slow, just like a good diet plan, be consistent and only make one change at a time. 

 If your horse has injured you or something has happened to cause you to lose confidence in him or yourself, only do what you feel is safe.  You will probably have the best results if you can get someone with experience in your problem area to help you find ways to rebuild you and your horses' confidence.  Do not rush things here either.  It takes as long as it takes.  As long as you see progress, you know you are on the road to recovery.  Fear is a common struggle, so do not feel you are alone if you have lost your confidence.  Remember, fear is common sense in disguise.  These large animals can do a lot of damage even on accident.  So, start where you feel safe and begin building the bridge that will get you back to the happiness that lead you to horse ownership.