Learning to Go Crooked Before Going Straight

Why Horsemanship is a Journey, Not a Destination  

The beginning of a new year often brings lofty goals and ambitious resolutions. For equestrians, that might mean setting specific targets for horse shows, improving training techniques, or reaching the next level in your riding. But as anyone who works with horses knows, progress isn’t always linear—and sometimes it feels like you’re taking a step back before moving forward.  

This idea resonated deeply during a recent "Horse Talk" podcast episode featuring publisher Lauren Abbott and co-host Robyn Miller, owner of Conceptual Horsemanship. Their discussion about goal-setting, understanding your horse, and the importance of balance and straightness in riding is a perfect way to reflect on what it means to set meaningful, achievable goals in the equestrian world.  

The Importance of a Clean Slate  

"New Year's always feels like a clean slate," Lauren shared during the episode. "You kind of put the past away and decide to step in a new direction." But with this fresh start can come the temptation to set goals that might be too ambitious or overwhelming. Robyn noted, "Usually, people set such lofty goals for their New Year's resolutions, and then they get overwhelmed."  

For riders, this often translates into trying to achieve too much, too quickly. "If I were to suggest a New Year's resolution for the horse community," Robyn continued, “it would be to take it day by day. Listen to your horse and work on what he needs that day. Make that your biggest goal.”  

Learning to Go Crooked Before Going Straight  

One of the fundamental concepts in riding is achieving straightness and balance, both for the horse and the rider. But as Robyn explained, this doesn't come easily. "What many riders don’t understand is that you and your horse have to go a little crooked before you can truly go straight."  

What does this mean? Every horse and rider has natural imbalances. A horse might naturally carry more weight on one side or struggle to bend equally both ways. Riders, too, often have asymmetries in their posture or strength. Tackling these imbalances means first acknowledging them and allowing some unevenness while working toward improvement.  

Robyn elaborated, “Straightness doesn’t mean your horse has to move like a ruler or look perfect from day one. It means finding out where the imbalances lie (in horse and rider), and gradually creating symmetry through patient, consistent work.”  

Patience, Connection, and Understanding  

Riding is as much about the rider’s mindset as it is physical skill. Horses are deeply intuitive animals and can sense when their rider is stressed, frustrated, or overly focused on achieving a goal.  

"If you put too much pressure on yourself, your horse will feel that pressure," Robyn explained. "And then you begin making mistakes, and instead of moving forward, you actually might go backward." The key to progress is patience—not just with your horse, but with yourself.  

Robyn emphasized, "Nothing you do with a horse comes easy. It takes work, patience, time, connection, and understanding." This applies equally to everyday training and loftier long-term goals, like competition. If progress feels slow, you’re not alone. But with every small improvement, you’re building a stronger partnership with your horse.  

A Personal Story of Knowing When to Pause  

During the podcast, Lauren shared her own experience of setting goals and deciding not to attend a horse show this past year because she wasn’t mentally prepared. "I just wasn’t in a good mental headspace," Lauren said. "When I’m not consistent in the saddle, it affects me. I know I haven’t put in the work, and I couldn’t justify pushing my horse, Kevin, when I wasn’t ready myself."  

Robyn praised Lauren for her decision. "Not a lot of people can look inside themselves and say, 'My emotional state isn’t going to do any justice to my horse in this environment.' That level of self-awareness benefits your horse in the long run."  

This anecdote demonstrated the importance of self-reflection and setting realistic expectations. Horses rely on their riders for guidance, stability, and confidence. If you’re not mentally or emotionally ready, it’s okay to pause and regroup. It’s not about cancelling your goals—it’s about ensuring both you and your horse are in the right mindset to pursue them.  

Setting Attainable Goals for the New Year  

For equestrians stepping into the new year, creating a positive mindset is paramount. Robyn suggests balancing short-term goals with long-term aspirations. "Set day-to-day goals based on your horse’s needs and work toward them patiently. Then have your long-term goals as something to reach for—but don’t cram everything in at once."  

Long-term performance goals, like advancing to the next competition level, are valuable motivators. But breaking those ambitions into manageable steps will make them feel less daunting—and more achievable.  

“A prosperous new year is about setting yourself up for success in the little things,” Robyn said. “When you listen to your horse, focus on connection, and remain patient, the bigger victories will follow.”  

Focus on the Journey  

Both Lauren and Robyn agreed that the equestrian lifestyle is as much about the process as it is about the end result. It’s easy to get caught up in competitive goals or milestones, but the true reward lies in the day-to-day connection with your horse.  

“There’s no shortcut in horsemanship,” Robyn emphasized. “Every improvement comes from the foundation you’ve built, whether that’s in straightness, balance, or your trust in each other.”  

Lauren summed it up perfectly during the episode. “Horses teach us so much about patience and perseverance. They're not machines—they mirror us, and they show us the areas where we can grow.”  

Start the Year with Balance and Straightness  

As we head into another year, take the time to evaluate your goals—not just for your riding, but for your connection with your horse. Approach each day with patience, and remember that progress often comes in the little moments, not just the big victories.  

If you’re inspired to kick off your horsemanship goals for the year, the “Horse Talk” podcast is here to support you with insights, tips, and community conversations. Subscribe today and take the first step toward a balanced, fulfilling year with your horse.  

Here’s to a great year of growth, connection, and riding straight into new opportunities!