Lack of motivation in winter

I need help. I've lost so much motivation lately. Partly because it's dark and dreary, but also because my pony and I are in a real slump right now. Before the winter break she was going better than she ever had, and right now every session is going rubbish. 😬 Of course that makes me lose motivation, and for the last 2 weeks it's just been a chore having to drive out and do the yard, and I really don't want it to feel like that! I tried to get my motivation back by setting up a plan for what I'll work on each week, like leg-yields, picking up canter, ridden-up work and counter-canter, and it helps a bit but not completely. Any tips on both how to get your motivation back and how to come out of a slump with your horse quickly? ❤️

Answers from HayHay's experts

Sometimes we put rather unrealistic expectations on ourselves to stay highly motivated. For most of us it goes up and down, which is completely normal. Stressing about it usually keeps the motivation away. Performance anxiety and pressure are often motivation's biggest enemy. Accept that it feels this way right now and build in some rest, perhaps groundwork or simply time spent together. The motivation comes back, often faster the less we try to force it. 🐴

Elise Lindman

Sports Psychologist