12/07/2026
Please read and take note 😉
Stop being so f*cking mean to yourself.
I know you think this doesn't apply to you, that you're not mean to yourself. Ok then, answer me this...
When did you last finish a ride and immediately think about what went right and what you did well, before reflecting on the parts that could have been improved?
When did you last give yourself a rest? And I mean a proper rest, no riding, no rushing around with somewhere to be. I mean taking time for you to chilled, regulated and content.
When did you last allow yourself to feel proud of something you've achieved without trying to dilute it?
''Oh it was all the horse''
''He helped me out''
''He saved me at fence 4''
When someone gives you a compliment, do you graciously accept it or do you dismiss and downplay it?
When was the last time you spent money on yourself? Not riding clothes, not clothes for work, not a new rug, or the weekly shop? When did you last buy yourself that nice coffee or cozy blanket, just because you wanted it?
I know you think you're not mean to yourself. That you're just ''joking around'' and ''having a laugh'' when you berate yourself for that pole down or missed fence. But your brain is ALWAYS listening, and it remembers and takes in far more than you are consciously aware of.
Equestrians are notoriously driven and passionate. We rarely settle and our goalposts are forever shifting. It's both a blessing and a curse, but you will never be the rider you want to be whilst consistently being mean to yourself, even in tiny ways.
So just try and be a little kinder to yourself. Celebrate your wins, allow yourself to feel proud, take credit for working hard. Be your own biggest fan.
Self belief is a super power, and it's probably the one thing holding you back.
