Setting riding goals for the new year is a great way for riders to stay focused on progress and celebrate achievements.
For some, goal-setting feels natural - it’s in your DNA to list goals and enjoy the challenge of ticking them off. But for others, it can feel overwhelming, and that’s completely normal. We’re all human. Life happens. Priorities shift, distractions arise, and sticking to goals can be tough.
That’s why I always recommend starting simple. Focus on just one goal—something achievable. It could be mastering a particular skill, keeping your horse calm during transitions, or even spending more quality time bonding with your pony. Remember, every step forward is progress, and every bit of progress is worth celebrating!
Last year, my horse Mick started getting pushy at feed time, which honestly stressed me out. I knew I needed to address it before it became a bigger problem. So, I set a goal to work on his manners and teach him to wait calmly for his feed. For a couple of weeks, I worked with him daily, keeping things simple but consistent. And you know what? He got it.
Now, feed time is calm, and the relief I feel is hard to put into words. It’s such a great feeling knowing we fixed something that could’ve escalated. I’m also incredibly proud—of Mick for learning, and of myself for sticking with it. Seeing him stand quietly instead of crowding me or the feed bin felt like a huge win.
This experience taught me just how powerful small, consistent efforts can be. It’s given me the confidence to take on bigger challenges, knowing Mick and I can handle them together.
Maybe you’re in a similar position. This could be your opportunity to try something new, refine a skill, or simply spend more time connecting with your horse. Each small win builds your confidence and motivates you to continue growing as a rider. It’s not just about reaching your goals—it’s about enjoying the journey, celebrating the little victories, and seeing how far you and your horse can go together.
What’s one small goal you or your young rider can focus on this year? 🌟
Sass xx