The equestrian world is tough. No doubt about it. The industry is tight, expensive and opportunities are often limited geographically to one type of discipline over another. Navigating relationships, schedules, opportunities, competitions, medical providers, all on top of working is complex! Whether you are a rider or an equine professional full time or part time, we all know how difficult it can be to build a trustworthy support system.
No equestrian journey is perfectly smooth and straightforward. Your boots are unique to you and will never fit perfectly into someone else’s footsteps. However, others’ paths can serve as great resources to guide us along the way. By observing and seeking the guidance of others’ based upon their own experiences, we are better able to identify who we want to be and where we want to go within the industry.
Every interaction with other equestrians/professionals has something to teach you; maybe it’s helpful hints or it’s examples of what not to do. A mentor is different. A mentor is someone who genuinely wants to support you and see you succeed. A mentor demonstrates qualities of honesty, trustworthiness and humbleness.
Mentors provide an outside perspective that helps you see the full picture and not get caught up in the challenges of the moment. You, including your horse, are bound to face struggle, whether that be physical, mental, or emotional. Regardless of the type you are experiencing, it’s very easy to find yourself consumed and overwhelmed. Mentors have the ability to help you find balance in your assessment of your situation and are clear minded in setting goals and finding solutions. Whether that be a simple small goal, or a lofty large goal, it is important to have someone by your side to guide you through the ups and downs that are unavoidable in the horse world.
Co-Founder, Katie Staib, has been very fortunate to have had some pretty amazing mentors throughout the years and previously expressed her gratitude in an article titled “A Story of Gratitude” published by USDF YourDressage in August, 2022. To hear her inspiring story, we have linked her article down below!
Our goal at EPC is to build a healthy and strong network of equestrians and professionals who will lend their expertise to the equine community and spread the passion and love of horses to the next generation. Stay tuned as EPC will be rolling out more articles that offer spotlight interviews with some of the best in the equine industry! Until then, don’t be afraid to pursue conversations with all the equestrians/professionals you meet… you may just find a mentor in the rough!
Co-Founder, Katie Staib’s, Article Published by UDSF YourDressage: