Many people get caught up in the idea of being “busy” and have a hard time focusing on individual tasks and goals. With family, work and social obligations, our “to do” lists can seem endless and overwhelming.
To be successful, we must make the conscious decision to focus on results, not excuses. If something is important to you – training for a competition, or mastering a certain movement – do not allow distractions to get in the way.
To achieve and maintain focus requires planning and preparation. This starts with setting aside uninterrupted time to practice and includes several steps along the way, designed to keep you on track.
Try some of these tips to help you achieve your goals in the show ring:
- Make a plan and stick to it – from carving out time to train, right down to the final warm up before you enter the ring. Don’t make any changes at the last-minute. Trust your plan.
- Revisit your goals at least twice a day leading up an event.
- Visualize your test, in a sort of “mental movie”. Rehearse key portions of the test, taking the smallest details into consideration.
- Keep fuelling your energy with positive emotions by savouring daily accomplishments.
- Commit to getting good rest and proper nutrition before and during competition.
- Surround yourself with a positive, encouraging team. Invite only uplifting and supportive people into your “private zone” during competition that can help you maintain focus and shield you from distractions.
- Partake in an electronic detox. Delegate someone else to take phone calls, check emails or make social media posts for you.
- Tell yourself failure is not part of the plan, and thus, not an option. Expect and anticipate good results.
Accomplished riders understand that clarity of mind leads to success. To achieve real results and real changes in our lives, we have to do some serious re-programming of our subconscious. When inner stillness replaces irrelevant drama – you know you are ready to roll.
