It’s easy to get caught up in the big picture—the clear rounds, the perfect transitions, the dream rides in the countryside. But real success isn’t built on dramatic leaps; it’s forged through small, consistent steps that build strength, confidence, and resilience over time.
This lesson is one I’m living daily. After having surgery on my legs, small steps are not just a strategy—they’re my only option. But instead of feeling limited, I’ve found a new sense of empowerment. Each small win is a reminder that progress is possible, even when the journey feels daunting.
The Science Behind Small Steps
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, emphasizes the power of small, incremental improvements. He writes, “If you get 1% better each day for one year, you’ll end up 37 times better by the time you’re done.” That’s the magic of compound growth: small actions, repeated consistently, lead to significant results.
For riders, this might mean:
– Spending 5 extra minutes on groundwork to build trust with your horse.
– Practicing one new exercise in each ride, rather than trying to master everything at once.
– Working on your mindset with a single affirmation each day.
The key? Consistency over perfection. It’s not about doing everything at once—it’s about showing up, no matter how small the effort feels.
The Courage to Start Small
Brené Brown, a researcher known for her work on courage and vulnerability, reminds us that bravery often begins with embracing imperfection. She says, “Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.”
For riders who struggle with confidence, showing up can feel like the hardest step of all. But it’s also the most courageous. Whether it’s tacking up your horse, stepping into the arena, or even just visualizing a positive ride, each small act of bravery builds a foundation for future success.
My Journey: Small Steps Toward Strength
Recovering from leg surgery has taught me a lot about patience, determination, and the value of small steps. At first, even walking felt like a monumental task. But each day, I am focusing on doing just a little more—one extra step, one deeper stretch.
The same approach applies to riding. I’m rebuilding my strength and confidence in the saddle, not by aiming for perfection, but by celebrating every tiny victory. Every time I show up, whether it’s for groundwork, visualization, or just a moment of connection with my horse, I remind myself: This is enough for today.
How to Take Small Steps in Your Riding Journey
1. Set Tiny Goals
Break big goals into bite-sized pieces. Instead of aiming to “ride confidently,” focus on one small action, like mastering a single transition or staying calm through one exercise.
2. Track Your Wins
Keep a journal to reflect on what went well, no matter how small. Did you breathe through a moment of fear? Did your horse respond well to your cues? Celebrate it—it all counts.
3. Be Kind to Yourself
Progress isn’t linear, and that’s okay. Some days will feel harder than others, but each step forward, no matter how small, is still progress.
4. Lean Into Support
Confidence doesn’t grow in isolation. Surround yourself with people who encourage and inspire you, whether it’s a riding coach, a friend, or a supportive online community.
Coming Back Stronger
Success isn’t about how fast we progress; it’s about showing up and committing to the journey. By embracing small steps, we not only build skills but also strengthen our mindset and deepen our connection with our horses.
As I work through my recovery, I’m reminded daily of the power of these small efforts. They may seem insignificant in the moment, but together, they create something extraordinary—a stronger, braver, more confident version of ourselves.
So, if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your riding journey, remember this: small steps are your superpower. Take one today, and trust that you’re on the path to something great.
What’s your next small step? I’d love to hear about it—share in the comments or drop me a message.
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