Controlling your emotions

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EN is about to say goodbye to Moveable Type…sparing the frustration of many writers!

 

 

The original source of the following essay is unknown; it seems to be making the internet rounds.  We take no credit for writing it, but are happy to pass it on to you.  Once again, from the EN mailbox:

 

Someone posted a thread asking for advice on controlling their emotions while riding. I never have that problem because I’m so grounded and patient and altogether accomplished a tack cleaner rider. I also grew up in BC where everyone sings kumbaya and communes with nature on a daily basis. So dude, I was, like, born laid back.

have had a lot of experience dealing with difficult people, though. And, as luck would have it, I also read an advice column this morning on fighting with your significant other that was full of helpful ideas. In other words, I’m uniquely qualified to offer insight in this area. Here are 7 failsafe strategies for keepin’ the crazy in check on horseback. You can thank me later.

Use loud verbal cues: Screaming at your horse is a sure fire way to get him to listen to your aids. It also lets other people know that you are confident in your particular training strategy and that they might benefit from this learning opportunity.

Take a timeout: Timeouts allow your horse to think about just how uncooperative he is. Then, when he has relaxed, you can thoroughly confuse him with mixed cues all over again.

Use humor: When things aren’t going right for you, make light of your barn mate’s horse, clothing or facial tick. You’ll feel better about yourself immediately.

Don’t get mad, get draw reins: Training tools were made to force your horse into submission. Pull out the spurs, long whip and draw lines, then watch his love grow.

Practice makes perfect: You will never get good at fighting with your horse unless you do it every day.

Bring reinforcements: If you are the one causing the problem–and, be honest, you are–then compensate for your failings with a steady supply of carrots. Only then can the healing begin.

Never get off your horse angry: Every satisfactory ride should have a proper ending. Don’t get off until you’re sure that he’s sorry you ever got on.

Remember, just because you spend a small fortune to feed, train and house your horse, doesn’t mean he has to respect you. Or even like you. You can be thankful for what little effort he deems to grant you. Or, you can fight tooth and nail until you Get Your Way. Me, I choose the latter option. (It works for relationships, too).



-Writer Unknown

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