Are you easily affected by the weight of others' opinions? 

It’s likely that you have encountered people with opinions about your riding skills, your choice of horse, or anything else in between. The horse industry is notorious for having judgmental and critical individuals, and it's easy to get caught up in what others have to say about you.

However, it's important to remember that you have the power to control your own thoughts and actions. 

 Don’t be easily discouraged or influenced by the words of others. Instead, focus on your strengths and weaknesses as an equestrian and make decisions that you truly believe in. With a positive attitude, you can take control of your riding career and strive to achieve success despite any criticism that comes your way. Stay true to yourself and keep pushing forward! 

We've compiled 4 tips to help you STOP caring about what others think or say about you as a rider.

1. Realize That Caring About Other People's Opinions Is Natural
   It's perfectly natural for humans to care about what other people think of them. In fact, it's a survival instinct that has been within us since the beginning of time. The problem is that in the context of the equestrian world, it's NOT serving us. Therefore, the first step to stop caring about other people's opinions is to realize that it's a natural instinct that you have to overcome.
   
   
2. Figure Out Your Underlying Insecurity and Work On It
   Instead of just trying to ignore other people's opinions, it's important to address the root cause of your insecurities. Once you figure out what's causing you to care so much about others' opinions, you can take steps to fix the underlying issue. Whether it's lack of confidence or a skill that needs improvement, focus on bettering yourself rather than just trying to ignore what others have to say.
   
   
3. Focus on Building Your Confidence
   One of the best ways to stop caring about what others think is to build your confidence. Focus on developing skills as a rider by taking lessons, attending clinics, and trying new things. When you feel confident in your abilities, you'll be less likely to worry about what others have to say. Also, remember that confidence is a learned skill that you can continuously develop.
   
   
4. Create Your Own Story
   We often assume that we know what others are thinking, but in reality, we don't have a clue. Instead of assuming the worst, create your own positive story about what others might be thinking. For example, if someone is staring at you while you ride, imagine that they are simply admiring you and your horse rather than criticizing you. By changing your story, you can change the meaning behind someone's actions and stop taking everything so personally.
   
   
5. Direct Your Thoughts on Your Riding
   Finally, when you start to feel anxious or worried about what someone thinks or says, redirect your thoughts to something you can control. Concentrate on the task at hand, such as improving your horse's collection or working on your position. Focus on small, achievable tasks that you can execute in the moment and by doing so, you'll crowd out negative thoughts and build your confidence.

As challenging as it may be, stopping to care about what people think and say about you as a rider is possible.

By following these tips, you can improve your confidence, develop your skills, and gain a new perspective on other people's opinions.

Remember, ultimately, you are in control of your thoughts, actions, and emotions. 

People pleasing is one of the topics that we will be covering in the FREE Webinar we are hosting this coming July 24th & 26th. 

Sign up for The 4P’s Webinar where we'll help you deal with the 4 P's, we see holding back a lot of riders that we work with which are People Pleasing, Perfectionism, Procrastination & Performing under pressure.

REGISTER FOR THE 4P'S WEBINAR