The Three Most Dangerous Words

Words can have a powerful affect on us. Especially the words we use against ourselves. Many riders don’t realize how much negative thinking can impact your riding. Horses can spot it instantly, however, and usually react in a variety of ways to let us know that they don’t like the thoughts playing in your head.

But the three most dangerous words we tell ourselves aren’t what you would think. They are seemingly harmless and said by almost everyone.

“I know that.”

How can these three words be so dangerous?

Firstly, because there is a big difference between knowing something and doing something. Just because you’ve read something in a book or attended a clinic or watched a youtube about the topic, does not mean that you DO it. Because knowing and doing are two different things.

Secondly, when you say the words, “I know that” to yourself, your mind immediately switches off. Instead of keeping an open mind for learning, your brain decides it already has the information it needs and doesn’t need to explore the topic any further.

That is one of the worst things we can do as equestrians. Because horses never lie to us. And what works on one horse might not work on another. They are constantly speaking to us, acting as our mirrors. You might call them “vices” or “problem horses” but the real vice and problem would be if you were unwilling to look at the reflection in the mirror and see where the problem truly lie.

So how can we correct this?

When presented with information, when you come across something that makes you feel those three deadly words, “I know that” take a breath and pause. Ask yourself the question, “Do I KNOW it? Or do I DO it?

If the answer is that you are not doing it, then you have more to learn about that topic. Seek the answers, reach out to coaches or mentors, find help and ask questions.

The same can be thought of when searching for a good instructor or coach. Ask yourself, do they simply have knowledge? Or can they actually do what they teach?

You might not hear yourself saying the three deadly words, “I know that” in the beginning. That is because it’s so ingrained within you that you simply didn’t realize you were saying this to yourself. Learn to listen for it and when you hear it, remember not to ignore it!