Читать книгу Geoff Teall on Riding Hunters, Jumpers and Equitation - Geoff Teall - Страница 63

The next question you must ask yourself is, “What will I need to know in order to make my goal possible?”

For our example, let’s say that you think doing well in the Hunt Seat Equitation Finals is an important step in your Olympic quest. Therefore, winning a ribbon in the finals now becomes your temporary Ultimate Goal. Dreams of the Olympics are fine, but your immediate work will be toward the finals.

This means that your entire focus will be on equitation for the time being. When you are done—when you are successful in the Hunt Seat Equitation division—then perhaps you will move on to riding jumpers as you identify the next step toward the Olympics.

Set actual, mini-achievable goals. These might include:

 Qualify for the finals this year.

 Make it into the second round next year.

 Win a ribbon, or win the finals, the following year.

As with everything in life, finances must be a consideration in your goal planning. If you can only afford one horse, you will have to make a conscious decision to do the Hunt Seat Equitation divisions first. Then, plan to sell that horse and get one better suited to the Jumper division when you are ready to advance.

Your goals need not be so lofty as being a rider on the Olympic team or a World Champion, but aiming high can be inspiring. Try to be realistic in your dreams so you don’t set yourself up for failure, and try to understand what shortcomings you might have, and take them into consideration.

There are any number of things that can keep you from your goals. But nothing will ever happen for you until you set a plan for yourself. Decide what you want to do. Then plan a series of steps to bring you closer to the end you envision.