Problems arise when we make assumptions while working with horses.
“He’s spooky.”
“He’s not spooky.”
“He’s fine with the back cinch.”
“He always takes this much leg.”
“He’ll be fine riding past that stuff.”
It’s important to be aware when we cast these type of assumptions – are you basing that information off of what you see and feel today, here, now? Or what you expect based on what you’re used to seeing?
Good riders take what they know from past experience, but stay present each ride. They feel the horse under them each moment and respond accordingly.
