The Equestrian Journal

08/01/2025

You don’t expect the creator of Dilbert to write a conventional success book and Scott Adams doesn’t disappoint. How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big is part memoir, part guide, part comedic riff on the absurdities of life, and it offers one of the most refreshingly unpretentious takes on personal growth you'll find.

This isn’t the kind of book that shouts “Never give up!”—it calmly points out that you probably will, and that’s okay. In fact, Adams himself failed at dozens of ventures, restaurants, inventions, product ideas, before ever finding traction with his comic strip and writing career.

What sets this book apart is its paradoxical tone: it’s humble but confident, skeptical but sincere. Adams isn’t trying to be your guru; he’s just sharing what’s worked for him in a voice that’s both self-deprecating and weirdly wise. His thesis? Success isn’t about goals, it’s about systems.

You don’t need passion, you need energy. And positive affirmations might actually be useful not because they’re magical, but because they help focus your brain like a missile on what you want.

This isn’t the kind of book that fits neatly into a category. It’s success literature with a side of dry humor and a dash of philosophical shrug. And that’s exactly why it works.

8 Lessons from How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big:

1. Forget goals. Use systems.
Goals are specific outcomes that often rely on luck and timing. Systems are repeatable processes that keep you improving and moving forward every day. Focus on daily habits, not distant trophies.

2. Be selfish (strategically).
Adams argues that taking care of your own health, energy, and mental state first makes you more useful to others in the long run. It's not about ego, it's about sustainability.

3. Passion is overrated.
Passion often follows success, not the other way around. Most successful people weren’t passionate about their field until after they got good at it. Skill, not raw enthusiasm, tends to win.

4. Maximize your energy, not your schedule.
Managing time is secondary to managing your energy. Learn when you’re most productive and design your day to match. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise above everything else.

5. Failure is a necessary investment.
Every failure carries knowledge, and every attempt is a data point. Adams treats failure as normal, expected, and even beneficial, provided you extract a lesson and apply it forward.

6. Learn a few valuable skills not just one.
You don’t need to be world-class at one thing. Being “pretty good” at a few complementary skills (e.g., writing + public speaking + design) creates a unique and marketable combo.

7. Affirmations may actually work.
Though he admits it sounds hokey, Adams claims affirmations (repeating your goals to yourself) helped him focus his mind and clarify what he truly wanted. Whether placebo or psychology, it helped.

8. You can create your own luck.
By staying in motion, networking, trying things, and showing up, you increase the odds of good fortune. Adams doesn’t believe in waiting for inspiration—he believes in building momentum.

06/25/2025

Your mind is not a storage unit, it's a processing tool.

When you write things down, you turn chaos into clarity.

Start untangling your thoughts, pen and paper is where order begins.

Image from Growthbyvisuals

05/17/2025

Great post! Mind if I add a #5?
If you’re not making progress, it might be because you’re not seeing the full picture.

The Equestrian Journal helps you layer your awareness with Monthly, Weekly, and Daily pages—so you can track patterns, reflect clearly, and make smarter decisions in the saddle.

Because you can’t fix what you don’t see.
Journal to see more.
www.TheEquestrianJournal.com

Are you hearing the same thing in your lessons over and over, like a broken record?

Not making progress can be super frustrating. Learning to accept frustration is a very important part of the learning process- I always say to my students, seek fulfillment, not fun, and you’ll be able to stick it out for the long haul.

But if the needle is not budging at all, here are some reasons this MAY be the case (obviously I am not diagnosing anyone’s individual case without seeing them)

1- infrequent lessons schedule :

Sometimes people get a lesson and learn a concept, and want to go home and digest it for a while before taking the next one. While this can work for some people, others really do not do well without being supervised in the phase of breaking a habit or learning a new skill. Without someone watching, many of us will not be aware of HOW we are doing the skill we are taught, and develop many repetitions of doing it poorly, further worsening our habit and bringing us farther away from our goals. This can be frustrating for teachers too, who can get trapped in a kind of purgatory where they can’t advance the student - and this often leads to a student leaving out of frustration of not getting anywhere.

2- you might need to hear it differently:

Not all instructors will coach well to everyone’s unique learning style. A dedicated student will figure out how to fill those gaps for themselves - watch the teacher and ask questions. Ask them for resources on the topic you’re struggling with and read or watch them - sometimes just hearing it in another way or seeing it in another context can make all the difference.

3- you might be missing an ingredient that allows you to do the “thing”-

If you keep hearing the same thing about your position over and over again, for example your leg keeps swinging forward, investigate why. Maybe your saddle makes it really hard for you to get in a good position.
While I’m not a fan of blaming inanimate objects for our flaws, the saddle market for women is truly terrible - i find so many saddles my students are riding in make them really struggle to get over their center of balance, make them wiggle through the middle and have to pinch with their knees for stability. But that’s an entire can of worms there.

It could be fitness, the horses wellness or fitness, or many other things worthy of investigation

4- you might just be in that sucky phase called “plateau “ and that happens to everyone

Sometimes, even despite your best efforts, your body just needs time to develop new patterns. Sometimes we bust through with a big leap in progress, and sometimes we just practice the same scales over and over. That’s the way it goes!

If you’ve investigated the first three, a change of attitude into acceptance and relaxing into the messy reality of learning will be your new best friend.

Photo by Jessie Cardew

05/10/2025

Dressage is not a sport of spectators.
It’s a discipline of solitude.

You can be surrounded by trainers, riders, judges, and still, you're alone.
Alone with your thoughts.
Alone with your horse.
Alone with every choice you've ever made in the saddle.

Most people quit dressage because they expect progress to feel like applause.
But here, progress feels like stillness.
Like tension giving way.
Like a breath you didn’t realize you were holding… finally let go.

The horse doesn’t care who’s watching.
And eventually, neither do you.

04/21/2025

Most of us battle with keeping a straight line of thoughts on a specific subject matter.

Our brain's capacity to store information is definitely unparalleled, but there's the need to constantly write down some of the things you've seen, observed or heard to help you process your response to them.

If you do not know how to start with this, then I'd suggest that you read "The Power of Writing It Down" by Allison Fallon.

This book will help you develop the habit that can help you unlock your brain and reimagine your life.

8 Empowering Insights from "The Power of Writing It Down"

1. The Brain's Connection to Writing
Fallon explains the neurological benefits of journaling, including improved memory, creativity, and problem-solving. When we write, we activate different areas of the brain, which can enhance cognitive function.

2. The Power of Self-Reflection
Journaling provides a safe space for self-reflection. By writing down our thoughts and feelings, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves and our motivations.

3. The Healing Power of Writing
Journaling can be a powerful tool for healing emotional wounds. Writing about our experiences can help us process our emotions and find closure.

4. The Benefits of Goal Setting
Writing down our goals can help us stay focused and motivated. When we put our goals on paper, they become more concrete and tangible.

5. The Importance of Gratitude
Expressing gratitude in a journal can shift our mindset and improve our overall well-being. Focusing on the positive aspects of our lives can help reduce stress and anxiety.

6. The Power of Visualization
Visualization is the practice of imagining our goals and dreams as if they have already come true. Journaling can be a powerful tool for visualization. When we write about our desires, we can bring them into focus and make them more likely to manifest.

7. The Importance of Creativity
Journaling can unleash our creativity. When we write without judgment, we can explore new ideas and perspectives.

8. The Value of Consistency
The key to reaping the benefits of journaling is consistency. It's important to make journaling a regular habit. Even a few minutes of writing each day can make a significant difference.

04/18/2025

Your thoughts shape everything.
They become your intentions.
Your intentions become actions.
Actions form habits.
Habits build character.
Character creates destiny.

Your mindset, beliefs, and words all begin with a single thought.

Be mindful.
Be intentional.
Be the author of your journey.

The Equestrian Journal helps you begin with one thoughtful step at a time.

Grab your copy of The Equestrian Journal and begin shaping your future—one thought, one entry, one ride at a time.

TheEquestrianJournal.com

04/10/2025

When your horse gets that you get it…

04/07/2025

Wish I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard, “I’ll start journaling WHEN I get my conference back.”

Journal FOR confidence!

Journal to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors effectively.

Journal to overcome self- doubt.

—-

The Confident Mind: A Battle-Tested Guide to Unshakable Performance by Dr. Nate Zinsser is a comprehensive exploration of the psychology of confidence and its critical role in achieving peak performance.

Drawing on his extensive experience as a sports psychologist and consultant, Zinsser provides readers with practical strategies and tools to cultivate a confident mindset, whether in sports, business, or everyday life.

The book begins by examining the nature of confidence, emphasizing that it is not an innate trait but a skill that can be developed through practice and action.

Zinsser introduces the concept of "mental conditioning," which involves training the mind to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors effectively.

He shares insights from his work with athletes, military personnel, and high-performing individuals, illustrating how confidence can be built and reinforced through intentional practices.

Zinsser outlines several key techniques for fostering confidence, including visualization, positive self-talk, goal-setting, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity.

He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses, advocating for a growth mindset that encourages continuous improvement.

Throughout the book, Zinsser combines scientific research with relatable anecdotes, making the concepts accessible and actionable.

Ultimately, The Confident Mind serves as a practical guide for anyone looking to enhance their confidence, overcome self-doubt, and perform at their best in various aspects of life.

Here are lessons from The Confident Mind

1. Confidence is a Skill, Not a Trait
Key Idea: Confidence can be developed through practice.

Lesson: Recognize that you can cultivate confidence like any other skill; it requires intentional effort and training.

2. Embrace a Growth Mindset
Key Idea: Viewing challenges as opportunities fosters resilience.

Lesson: Adopt a mindset that values learning and improvement; see setbacks as stepping stones to greater success.

3. Visualization Techniques
Key Idea: Mental imagery enhances performance and confidence.

Lesson: Use visualization to imagine successful outcomes; this prepares your mind for real-life scenarios and boosts self-belief.

4. Positive Self-Talk
Key Idea: The language you use with yourself influences your mindset.

Lesson: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations; practice self-compassion and encourage yourself through constructive dialogue.

5. Set Clear and Achievable Goals
Key Idea: Goals provide direction and motivation.

Lesson: Define specific, measurable, and attainable goals; breaking larger goals into smaller steps can enhance focus and confidence.

6. Learn from Failure
Key Idea: Failure is a natural part of the growth process.

Lesson: View failures as valuable learning experiences; analyze what went wrong and adjust your approach moving forward.

7. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
Key Idea: Being aware of your thoughts and feelings enhances emotional regulation.

Lesson: Incorporate mindfulness practices to stay present and manage anxiety; self-awareness is key to understanding and improving your performance.

8. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences
Key Idea: Your environment and relationships impact your confidence.

Lesson: Build a supportive network of individuals who uplift and encourage you; positive reinforcement from others can enhance your self-belief.

9. Consistency is Key
Key Idea: Regular practice builds confidence over time.

Lesson: Commit to consistent mental conditioning and practice; the more you engage in confidence-building exercises, the stronger your confidence will become.

10. Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome
Key Idea: Concentrating on the journey enhances performance.

Lesson: Engage fully in the process of your endeavors rather than fixating solely on results; this helps reduce pressure and fosters a more confident mindset.

The Confident Mind by Dr. Nate Zinsser is an insightful and practical guide to understanding and cultivating confidence.

The key lessons emphasize that confidence is a skill that can be developed through intentional practice, a growth mindset, and positive self-regulation techniques.

Zinsser's approach combines psychological insights with actionable strategies, making this book a valuable resource for anyone aiming to enhance their confidence and perform at their best in various aspects of life.

Whether in sports, business, or personal endeavors, the principles outlined in this book empower readers to overcome self-doubt and achieve their goals.

BOOK: https://amzn.to/427W4lU

04/07/2025

Journal to reveal….

The Hidden Half: A History of the Unseen by Michael Blastland is a compelling exploration of the complexities of human behavior and the often invisible factors that shape our decisions and perceptions.

In this thought-provoking book, Blastland delves into the world of statistics, psychology, and the unseen influences that drive our choices, presenting a narrative that challenges readers to reconsider how they understand the world around them.

The central theme of the book revolves around the idea that much of what influences our thoughts and actions lies beneath the surface—factors that are not immediately visible or quantifiable.

Blastland draws on a variety of examples, including personal anecdotes, scientific studies, and historical events, to illustrate how our understanding of the world is often skewed by biases, assumptions, and incomplete information.

He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these hidden elements in order to make more informed decisions and to better understand the motivations of others.

By highlighting the limitations of our perceptions and the power of context, Blastland encourages readers to be more mindful of the complexities inherent in human behavior and to question their own assumptions.

Ultimately, The Hidden Half serves as an insightful guide that invites readers to explore the unseen forces that shape our lives, urging them to embrace curiosity and critical thinking in order to navigate a world filled with uncertainty and ambiguity.

10 Key Lessons from The Hidden Half

1. Recognize the Invisible Influences
Key Idea: Many factors that shape our decisions and perceptions are hidden from view.
Lesson: Be aware of the unseen influences in your life, as they can significantly impact your choices and behaviors.

2. Question Assumptions
Key Idea: Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and oversights.
Lesson: Challenge your assumptions and strive to understand the underlying factors that may not be immediately apparent.

3. Understand the Role of Context
Key Idea: Context plays a critical role in shaping decisions and perceptions.
Lesson: Consider the broader context of situations to gain a more nuanced understanding of human behavior.

4. Embrace Uncertainty
Key Idea: Life is filled with uncertainties that can influence outcomes.
Lesson: Accept that uncertainty is a natural part of life, and develop resilience in navigating it.

5. Utilize Critical Thinking
Key Idea: Critical thinking helps uncover hidden factors influencing decisions.
Lesson: Engage in critical thinking to analyze information and draw conclusions based on evidence rather than assumptions.

6. Acknowledge Biases
Key Idea: Personal biases can distort our understanding of reality.
Lesson: Recognize your biases and strive to minimize their impact on your decision-making processes.

7. Learn from Statistics
Key Idea: Statistics can reveal underlying patterns and trends.
Lesson: Use statistical data thoughtfully to inform your understanding of complex issues, but be wary of misinterpretation.

8. Value Empathy
Key Idea: Understanding the unseen factors in others' lives fosters empathy.
Lesson: Cultivate empathy by considering the hidden influences that shape the experiences and decisions of others.

9. Seek Diverse Perspectives
Key Idea: Different viewpoints can illuminate hidden factors.
Lesson: Engage with diverse perspectives to broaden your understanding and uncover hidden dimensions of issues.

10. Foster Curiosity
Key Idea: Curiosity drives exploration and deeper understanding.
Lesson: Maintain a curious mindset, asking questions and seeking to understand the complexities of the world around you.

The Hidden Half by Michael Blastland is a thought-provoking examination of the unseen factors that influence human behavior and decision-making.

The key lessons encourage readers to recognize the invisible influences in their lives, question their assumptions, and embrace a mindset of curiosity and critical thinking.

Blastland’s insights inspire a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behavior and the importance of considering the hidden dimensions of our experiences.

This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to navigate the uncertainties of life with greater awareness and empathy.

BOOK/AUDIOBOOK: https://amzn.to/4iRtTPa

04/05/2025

Ever catch yourself multitasking when you are with your horse?

I had a gelding that I called my “mindful-pony.”

I didn’t even have to be doing two things at once… if my thoughts drifted away from him, Catawba would give me a nibble.

Not a bite… just a little lip to bring my mind back to him and what we were doing.

What a gift he was.

Catawba brought me back into my body when I was mentally trying to escape chronic pain. He healed me. He helped me remember love, joy, meaning, and the richness of my life.

——

The Twelve Monotasks by Thatcher Wine is a rallying cry against multitasking in a distracted world.

Wine argues that doing one thing at a time with full attention—whether eating, working, or listening—is the secret to productivity, joy, and deeper connections.

Through 12 core activities, he shows how monotasking restores focus and meaning to everyday life.

10 Lessons from The Twelve Monotasks:

1. Multitasking is a Myth – Your brain can’t focus on two things at once—it just switches rapidly, draining energy.

2. The 12 Monotasks – Master these daily:

Eating (savor flavors)

Walking (notice surroundings)

Listening (no interrupting)

Sleeping (no screens)

Working (single-tasking)

Reading (deeply, no skimming)

Creating (no distractions)

Exercising (mind-to-muscle focus)

Driving (no phone)

Waiting (be present, don’t scroll)

Playing (immersive joy)

Loving (undivided attention)

3. The 20-Minute Rule – Commit to monotasking for just 20 mins; momentum builds naturally.

4. Digital Fasting – Designate tech-free hours to reset attention spans.

5. Slow Down to Speed Up – Monotasking reduces errors and boosts efficiency long-term.

6. Boredom is Productive – Letting your mind wander sparks creativity.

7. The “Phone Stack” Game – At meals, everyone stacks phones; first to grab theirs pays the bill.

8. Single-Tab Work – Close all browser tabs except one to crush distractions.

9. Depth Over Breadth – Better to fully master one skill than dabble in ten.

10. Monotasking as Meditation – Fully engaging in one activity is a mindfulness practice.

Wine’s book is a practical antidote to overwhelm. By monotasking, you reclaim focus, reduce stress, and rediscover the richness of ordinary moments.

GET BOOK: https://amzn.to/4iUbYaN

04/02/2025

Here are 10 Lessons from The Seeker of Nothing: A Fable on Owning Your Life by Kabir Munjal

1. Fulfillment Comes from Within, Not from External Achievements
We often seek happiness in external milestones—wealth, relationships, or recognition. But true peace lies in recognizing that fulfillment is an internal journey. The more we chase external validations, the more elusive they become. Instead, by turning inward, we discover that the answers we seek are already within us. True contentment arises when we stop relying on the outside world to define our worth.

2. Letting Go of the Past is the First Step to Freedom
Holding onto past grievances, mistakes, or regrets binds us to a cycle of pain and self-doubt. Kabir Munjal emphasizes the importance of releasing these burdens to embrace the present moment fully. Forgiveness, both of ourselves and others, is a powerful tool in this process. Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting but instead choosing to no longer let the past define or control us.

3. The Illusion of Control: Surrendering to Life’s Flow
Life is unpredictable, and our attempts to control every aspect often lead to frustration and disappointment. Munjal teaches that surrendering to life’s natural flow doesn’t mean giving up—it means trusting the process and adapting to challenges as they arise. By relinquishing the illusion of control, we create space for growth, creativity, and unexpected opportunities.

4. Self-Worth is Independent of Productivity
In a world that praises constant activity and achievement, it’s easy to equate self-worth with how much we accomplish. Munjal reminds us that our value is inherent—it doesn’t depend on how productive or successful we are. Rest, reflection, and simply being are just as important as doing. Recognizing this can help us break free from the burnout culture and reclaim balance in our lives.

5. The Power of Presence: Living Fully in the Moment
The present moment is all we truly have, yet we often dwell in the past or worry about the future. Munjal emphasizes the transformative power of mindfulness—being fully present in the here and now. When we engage wholeheartedly with the present, even in the mundane, life becomes richer and more meaningful.

6. Owning Your Choices: The Path to Authenticity
True freedom comes from owning our decisions and taking responsibility for our lives. This means embracing both the successes and the failures that come with our choices. Munjal highlights that living authentically—aligning our actions with our values and desires—requires courage but ultimately leads to a life of greater meaning and satisfaction.

7. Connection is Essential, but Dependency is Limiting
Human relationships are vital for growth and joy, but Munjal highlights the importance of distinguishing connection from dependency. Healthy relationships are mutual and empowering, while those rooted in dependency can hinder our ability to stand on our own. The lesson is clear: nurture relationships that foster growth and let go of those that drain or limit you.

8. Gratitude Transforms Perspective
When life feels overwhelming or unfulfilling, cultivating gratitude can shift our mindset. Munjal encourages us to focus on what we have rather than what we lack. Gratitude doesn’t dismiss life’s challenges, but it reframes them, helping us find beauty and growth even in difficult times. It’s a reminder that abundance often starts with appreciation.

9. Fear is a Teacher, Not an Enemy
Fear often paralyzes us, preventing us from pursuing our dreams or stepping into the unknown. Munjal reframes fear as a guiding force, showing us where we have room to grow. By facing our fears instead of avoiding them, we build resilience and discover our true potential. Fear, when embraced, can become a powerful ally in our journey of self-discovery.

10. Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication
In a world of complexity and constant noise, Munjal advocates for simplicity. Simplifying our lives—whether through decluttering our physical spaces, prioritizing what truly matters, or clearing mental chatter—leads to clarity and peace. The seeker’s journey in the book is a testament to the idea that less is often more, and that true freedom comes from letting go of unnecessary burdens.

Kabir Munjal’s The Seeker of Nothing inspires readers to reflect deeply on their own lives. Through its fable-like narrative, it provides profound yet practical lessons about self-discovery, mindfulness, and living authentically. Each lesson serves as a reminder that the journey to owning our lives begins with small, intentional steps toward self-awareness.

BOOK: https://amzn.to/42476bE