Gossip: casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true. – Oxford Dictionary
We’ve all been there. As we’re cleaning the aisle or mucking a stall, we overhear people whispering about the new rider or the fancy horse that just arrived. “Ooooh, where did he come from?” “what level does she ride?” “who was her trainer?” “how long have they had that horse?”
Sometimes a question is just that: a question of sincere interest! Getting to know new faces and having a fresh experience in a new boarding barn or training facility can be exciting, but it can also be intimidating. Those same questions can be used for digging up information on the competition and when we start to share information about other riders with other riders, it turns into barn gossip.
Barn gossip tends to grow from seeds of jealousy, fatigue, and frustration. It negatively impacts the relationships between the members of the barn. Gossip destroys trust and respect while also tainting the participants’ reputations as untrustworthy and toxic. That is why it is important to avoid barn gossip at all costs!
Equestrians love all things horses! Some enjoy the thrill of competition, while others treasure the therapeutic relaxation of their horse companion. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a recreational one, the relationships we build and share with our fellow equestrians matter!
3 Steps to Avoid Barn Gossip
Ask. If you have a sincere question, ask the rider directly. Show your genuine interest. Don’t go fishing for information from others.
Redirect. If you hear the stirrings of barn gossip, don’t participate in the conversation or the spreading of what you may have heard. Redirect the conversation to something that is useful and valuable to the health of the horses and the barn community.
More Compliments, less Criticism. It always feels good to receive a compliment for your hard work and efforts in the arena. Pay it forward and share those compliments with others. Be a ray of light that encourages healthy relationships and great barn vibes!
