Have you ever wanted to be a top show jumper?

Or the best that you could ever be in any sport or in your business? As I mentioned in my previous blog post about my T.A.R.A. coaching system, having aspirations is vital. It then enables you to have an aim.

But if you want to be the best in whatever you're doing. Say wanting to be a top show jumper. Or jumping bigger fences. You need to be realistic. And the 'R' in my coaching system, stands for "realistic"!

Now I'm all for aiming for the best. But as you know, if you're training a horse to jump bigger fences. It can be easy to over-face them. So they start refusing or napping, or rushing for instance. Because they're anxious or even scared.

It's not realistic to expect a horse to start jumping 1.60meters if they've not had good schooling on the flat. And started jumping successfully at a lower height. Your horse needs training regularly.

You also can't be jumping larger fences and courses if you've not had good training and practice. That's not realistic either.

So how does this apply to your equestrian (or canine) care business? In my example above, there's no reason why you can't jump larger fences. And be the best you can be a show jumper. But as in business. Get the basics right. Understand what you need to do to get better. To achieve your goals. What do you need to do?

If you want to showjump.

• What training does your horse need?
• Are you practicing flat work enough?
• Are you practicing pole work or jumping regularly.
• Do you need to have lessons to improve your position, so you're helping your horse?
• Do you need to go out to shows and get used to the ring? Learn how to make the most of turns in different arenas?

There's many steps you need to take. But they're not always complicated! The basics are often overlooked for some new gadget. A quick fix solution. Sometimes the basics can take longer to master and achieve. But they're a good foundation.

But don't think it's all hard work or no success. If it's a struggle then it's not the right aim for you. Enjoy the journey. It may sound a cliche but it's true. If you're not happy along the way then what's the point? I love this quote:

"Happiness is a mindset for your journey, not the result of your destination"

(Shawn Achor)

Finally be realistic in that you need to take action. And it may take sometime. Focus on the actions. But do it all in line with your aspirations. Take reassurance in the fact that your aspirations can become real. By you being realistic that you need to focus. And don't over-complicate things, be realistic that the mastering the basics will stand you in better stead over the long run than a quick fix.

Action Point

• Review what steps you're taking to achieve your goals.
• Are you taking action that will really help you? Are you being objective and taking a realistic approach? Or do you need to adjust your daily tasks?

These tips are from my goal setting toolkit, which you can get as part of your 1-2-1 business coaching. Email info @ taranet.co.uk for more information!

How to Get Confidence Running Your Equine or Canine Business

Click here for more information on consultancy. Or email me at info @ taranet.co.uk for info on coaching opportunities with me.

About The Author
Suzanne Harris is an equestrian and canine entrepreneurial coach and consultant to veterinarians who want to help prevent animals being affected by domestic abuse.

PS: You can find more equestrian and pet care themed business articles over at my Linkedin, see more here https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-harris-mcmi/detail/recent-activity/posts/

Tags: advice, equine business, canine business, coaching, business, personal development, motivation, success