Focus. Dream. Believe.

I wanted to share these few words, or more than a few words with you all. I wrote this for the BC young rider Annual General Meeting that I wasn't able to attend. For those of you that don't know, I'm the rider rep for the program and so I wanted to share something from my heart with them and as I started thinking about it, I want to share this with you all as well. Perhaps it may bring a little inspiration whether a horse person or not. It's about living out your passion, right?

As we all know, this sport does not come easy. It takes a lot of dedication and perseverance but also a certain type of character to be at the barn nearly every day, hour after hour, putting in so much energy into something few people understand why. It can be exhausting but yet it is so worth it.
These are a few things I’ve learned over the years from various people as I’ve struggled through frustrations and then successes.
Believe in yourself, believe in your horse, and never forget the two of you are a team. You do this because you love it so ride with passion and ride from the heart. It’s just you and your horse out there, a partnership, so ride like no one’s watching.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how you learn, so have a laugh and try again.
Stay dedicated and don’t give up. Persevere and believe in your dreams. Don’t underestimate the focus this requires. It’s not easy but when you keep smiling it keeps you focused on how far you’ve really come.
Never overlook the respect you need to have for your horse, but never underestimate the respect they need to have for you. It goes both ways but it starts with trust. Don’t take advantage of the blessing they bring to your life. And one of the most important things I’ve learnt over the years is that you are your horse’s only advocate – don’t ever forget that. It’s not just how you treat them under saddle, it’s on the ground as well – be a true horseman.
Let your trainer kick you in the butt when settling for okay is no longer good enough. And never forget there is always more to learn.
Always remember what a simple thank you can mean. And never take a helping hand for granted, especially from your parents.
Don’t be afraid to dream big. Go for it and keep your mental game up.
So let’s go out and face this year as a team. Let’s not overlook the support we can all give to one another. Let’s learn to function as a family and break down the barriers from training level to FEI and go out as a force respecting this sport and being good ambassadors, having fun because we are doing what we love.
With that, I’d like to wish you all the best this coming year and don’t lose sight of your passion.
All my best,
Monica