Motivation from Moshi no. 43, by Jane Savoie

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I just love show season. I’ve worked all summer long to get ready for the winter shows in Florida. There’s something about the camaraderie of the horses and the people that make a show feel like a special party.

Do you feel that way about showing?

Not everyone does. Some people get really stressed at shows. They know they’re being watched and judged, and it makes them squirm. That’s a natural reaction. We’re all conditioned to worry about what others think about us. And a show is the one place where you’re actually asking for someone to judge and openly “criticize” you.

If you’re trying to figure out what the judge is thinking about while he or she watches you, you’re creating a feedback loop that takes you out of the moment. Instead of concentrating on your ride, your mind has to make a full circle to think about what the judge is watching. As you try to see through the judge’s eyes, it’s hard to pay attention to what you and your horse are doing. WHEW! It’s confusing just to describe it!

The key here is to stay in the moment, and only give your mental energy to your ride. Forget everything else. Don’t look at the judge or at the spectators. In your mind’s eye, make you and your horse crystal clear and let the spectators appear fuzzy, dim, and out of focus. Take a deep breath, feel the air go into your lungs to bring yourself back to the present moment, and then do exactly what you do every day at home in practice. Ignore everything else.

Showing is supposed to be fun! The key is deciding you’re going to have fun, no matter what. Remember, it’s not just about the ribbons….

Love, Moshi

From Indy:

The great thing about being a dog is that I never worry about the future. I know my bowl will always be filled with food, I know water is available just for the asking, I have a nice pillow to sleep on, and that’s about all I need! In fact, I don’t really need the pillow. The grass in the yard works just fine.

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When you really think about it, there isn’t a whole lot you really “need” either. If you’ve got food, water, air, clothing, and a place to get out of the weather, you’re going to survive. Everything else is just to make surviving more enjoyable.

If you’re worried about money or the economy right now, just know that you’re going to be okay. Your life may not be the same, but you’re still going to be okay. You will survive. You’ll get through this. I promise! There is light ahead! Everything changes, and this is just one of those periods of change. All will be well. I mean it! All will be well! Relax. Breathe. Trust. Know… you’re going to be okay.

Love, Indy

Jane Savoie
1174 Hill St ext.
Berlin, VT 05602

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