In this episode, I'm recapping a recent clinic and sharing some perspectives on the relationship between progression and confidence. Join me as I break down the formula for creating confidence, both in yourself and in your horses.

One of the key themes that has emerged during this spring season of clinics is the importance of confidence, and I will dive deeper into that topic. But first, let's recap some of the highlights from the clinic.

This clinic was a unique experience, as it marked my first time integrating a pro cutter flag into a clinic. While I don't specialize in training cutting horses, I've been exploring the benefits of using the flag as a tool for improving communication and timing with my horses.

The more I use the flag, the more I realize its value in helping horses handle and respond better. It is a great tool to help us refine our signals and enhance our communication, regardless of the discipline.

During the clinic, we had discussions about the challenges faced by horses bred for speed events. These horses are bred for long strides and covering more ground, which can pose challenges in events that require rating, stopping, and turning. Without proper signal, these tasks can be incredibly challenging for horses bred for speed.

That's where the flag comes in. It helps us focus on sending signals with our body before using bridle reins. By paying attention to the signal before the signal, we become more aware of our body language and cues, creating more accurate responses from our horses.

One of the key takeaways from the clinic was the importance of progress over perfection. We discussed the 1% rule—making small improvements each day leads to significant progress over time. It's crucial to acknowledge and celebrate these incremental gains, as they contribute to building confidence for both riders and horses.

Confidence plays a vital role in horsemanship. It determines how we carry ourselves, how we treat others, and ultimately, how we connect with our horses. Progression in training leads to increased confidence, creating a positive cycle of growth and improvement.

At the end of the clinic, the positive changes in horses' behavior reflected the progress made by their trainers. Seeing horses respond positively and riders gaining confidence reaffirmed the value of focusing on progression and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.

I encourage everyone to adopt a mindset of discipline and progress in their horsemanship journey. Whether it's refining signals, improving timing, or setting small goals for daily improvement, every step forward contributes to building confidence and strengthening the bond between horse and rider. Remember, it's not about achieving perfection overnight; it's about making progress, no matter how small, and embracing the journey of continual improvement.