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In one of my earlier episodes, I shared how I chose a single word to define my year, and for 2024, that word is 'discipline'. Discipline, for me, is not just a buzzword; it's the driving force behind my actions. I chose it to serve as a daily reminder to prioritize the things I committed to. Whether in life or horsemanship, discipline is the catalyst for progress.

Motivation vs. Discipline

We all know motivation is essential, but without discipline, it's futile. Motivation might spark the desire to do something, but it's discipline that turns that desire into action. So, every day, discipline is there at the top of my planner, underlined and in quotation marks, reminding me to stay on course.

Daily Discipline Rituals

Discipline sets the tone for my day. At the beginning of each page in my planner, I write the word 'discipline'. It's a ritual I plan to follow for 365 days this year. This practice is accompanied by a few simple tasks: pray, express gratitude, meditate, and work out. These actions ground me and set a positive tone for the day. I don’t do anything fancy with my meditation routine. My routine looks like a few deep breaths and a few grounding thoughts in between sips of coffee. While it’s a simple routine, it is necessary in helping me focus my thoughts on the right things each day.

Practicing Gratitude

I include gratitude in my morning rituals because this one word has a big influence on how I approach my day mentally, I remember a year when my chosen word was 'gratitude'. It’s a simple reminder to not get too caught up in the future. It’s a reminder to appreciate the past–the lessons learned, the trials won, and the challenges overcome. It is a conscious decision to pull myself back from my future, not just focusing on tomorrow but appreciating today and learning from the past.

Flexibility in Discipline

Discipline doesn't mean rigidity. Life is dynamic, and interruptions are inevitable. It's crucial to understand that deviations from your routine don't equate to failure. Each day is an opportunity to start fresh. If a schedule gets disrupted, don't be too hard on yourself; instead, focus on getting back on track. Every day is an opportunity to get started again. And, discipline is the thing that will help you get started again.

Applying Discipline to Horsemanship

As I incorporate discipline into my daily life, it naturally extends to my horsemanship principles. I've found myself pondering the little things that can make a significant difference in my horse's comfort and mindset. From the bridle adjustment to the fit of the saddle, every detail matters. Horses are sensitive beings, and their comfort directly influences their mindset. A simple adjustment in your equipment can lead to a more relaxed and responsive horse.

Discipline in Equipment Care

Discipline also extends to the care of our equipment. Keeping our equipment well oiled helps it stay as close to “like new” condition as possible. It keeps the leather soft and pliable, which I have to believe is more comfortable for the horse wearing it. A well-maintained piece of equipment can make a world of difference in your horse's comfort and performance.

The Power of Small Changes

In conclusion, discipline is not just about following a strict routine. It's about paying attention to the small things, both in our lives and in our horsemanship journey. Small changes in our approach, equipment, and routines can lead to significant improvements. So, let's embrace discipline, stay focused on our commitments, and watch the positive transformations unfold.