Let’s be honest — getting stuck in your riding or horse training journey can feel downright defeating. You’ve tried different approaches, experimented with new techniques. And you’ve even questioned if you’re the problem (hint: you’re not). And yet, nothing seems to be working. You’re on a plateau, staring at the same old view, wondering what the heck to do next.
I’ve been there. And if you’re nodding along right now, this post is your sign to hit reset — with intention, structure, and a clear plan. I want to introduce you to something that changed everything for me: a 90-Day Reset.
Not a vague “new start.” Not a burst of motivation that fades in a week. A proper, intentional 90-day commitment to shift the momentum in your riding, your horse’s training, and quite honestly, your life.
Why a 90-Day Reset?
There’s something powerful about committing to a timeframe that’s long enough to see real change, but short enough to feel achievable. In my own experience, things had been spiraling a bit. October had arrived, and instead of celebrating progress, I was stuck deeper than ever. I felt exhausted, frustrated, and painfully aware of everything that wasn’t working.
So, I made a decision: for 90 days, I would commit to a fresh start. I would set up boundaries, create a couple of rules. And I would show up – even on the days I didn’t feel like it.
That 90-day commitment changed more than just a few routines. It changed my mindset, my energy, and the way I approached everything. And I bet that if you take this same approach, you can use this to transform your riding as well.
The Power of Simple Rules
When you’re making a 90-day plan, the key isn’t to change everything overnight. First of all, that is not fun, and it will more than likely lead to burnout. And you are not actually following through. Instead, focus on simple, clear rules that move you toward your goal.
These rules must be completely non-negotiable. This way, they will give you something to lean on when motivation is in short supply! My rules kept me moving forward when the initial excitement wore off (and trust me, it always does).
You need the same kind of anchors in your riding. What would your version of those rules look like? 3 schooling sessions each week, no excuses. One groundwork session every 10 days. No riding without a clear plan. Weekly video review to track progress…. Whatever it is — choose it, write it down, and commit to it for 90 days.
Resistance Will Show Up
Here’s what nobody tells you when you commit to change: the resistance is part of the process. There were days I wanted to quit. Days when sticking to the plan felt pointless, especially when I was not seeing initial results. But I didn’t quit. I really do put this down to creating and following my rules!
I was actually close to 6 weeks in before I saw any measurable improvement. And then, on my birthday, a little past the halfway mark, things shifted! I could see the progress, even if it wasn’t ‘great’. It was definitely there.
And after sticking with it through thick and thin, that renewed sense of possibility is the magic of a 90-day commitment. It was like a burst of inspiration in the middle :)
And you’ll get there too, but only if you don’t quit when it’s boring. Or hard. Or inconvenient. You’ve got to stick with it. And those rules will help you to do that. Remember, it’s only for 90 days…
For You & Your Horse
We often think riding plateaus are about us. Our motivation, our skills, our mindset. And that is somewhat true… But if you’ve been stuck for a while, chances are your horse is stuck too. He’s picking up on your frustration. Your inconsistency. Your lack of clarity. Imagine what a 90-day reset could do for both of you.
When you start showing up with intention, your horse responds. When you follow through on your plan, your horse learns to trust you again. You start to speak the same language. Progress becomes inevitable.
Your 90-Day Plan: How to Start
If you’re feeling inspired but unsure where to begin, start here:
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Define what “progress” looks like
What do you want to be true by the end of these 90 days? Be specific. “Feel more confident” is too vague. Try “ride a full schooling session in the arena 3 times per week without freezing up” instead. -
Choose 3-5 rules that support that goal
Make them clear. Make them simple. Make them non-negotiable. -
Write it all down — and put it somewhere visible
Better yet, share it with someone who’ll hold you accountable. More on that in a second. -
Expect resistance, and plan for it
What will you do on the days you don’t feel like riding? Or when the weather is awful? Have a plan. -
Celebrate milestones, not just the end result
Track your progress. Reflect weekly. And give yourself credit for staying the course.
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You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
If you want support while you work through this, I can absolutely help you with that. My Restart & Reschool Private Coaching Program is designed specifically for riders like you: those who are training on their own, without a regular instructor, and are ready to get things moving again.
Here’s what’s inside:
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Weekly virtual private horse riding lessons
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Video reviews of your rides
- Private 1 to 1 chat
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Tailored training plans based on your horse and your goals
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Flexible scheduling that works for real life
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This is about more than progress. It’s about confidence. Connection. Clarity. If you’re ready to commit to your own 90-day restart and want guidance, reach out to me directly or visit www.stridesforsuccess.com.
Share Your Riding Reset
We have a wonderful (and supportive!) group of riders inside our private community at stridesforsuccess.com/group. If you’re planning your own 90-day reset, I’d love for you to share your rules and goals inside the group. Maybe you’ll inspire another rider to do the same.
Because here’s the truth: You don’t need another “tomorrow.” You need structure. You need clarity. You need a finish line. And, if you choose to, that can start today. Yep, right now!
Your 90-Day Riding Reset
A 90-day reset won’t solve everything. However, maybe yours can be the catalyst for a complete shift in your riding and training. It will create a container, a framework for you to work inside (there are those rules again)!
This is a time for you to get honest, get focused, and get results. If you’re stuck, see this as your invitation to begin again. Make the plan. Set your rules. And, most importantly, commit to showing up. Especially when things get hard, you’re not seeing results, and you simply don’t feel like it.
I’m cheering for you, and if you want a coach in your corner for the next 90 days, you know where to find me. Let’s make this quarter count.
Happy Riding
Lorna
Related Resources, Links, and Topics
Online Training to Help Your Riding
Connect with Lorna online:-
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- Connect in the Daily Strides Podcast Online Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dailystridespodcast
- Connect in the Virtual Stable Lounge Private Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1499737810323191
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