Today I thought I'd talk about bullying, it happens everywhere in every sport, daily life, schools and in the workplace.
We are seeing and hearing about it all the time. My question is why? Jealousy? own insecurities? Is there really any need? After going to shows and other yards more regularly over the past year I have seen it first hand, muttering, groups of people, the criticism, comments at the ring side whilst competitors ride round, commenting on peoples horses... I thought we were all horse lovers? What is the need for this? It needs to stop.
The equestrian sport and owning a horse takes a lot of time in our lives, owning a horse is a very expensive hobby and we are all in it together so there needs to be more support and love for each other. Whether we are starting out, have horses as pets or working and competing at high level. We are all crazy enough to have horses so let's help each other! Instead of criticism why not offer support or advice?
People need to realise what the outcome of their nasty words can cause and how that person may feel behind closed doors at night. You never know what they could be going through in life, going to the stables could be their get away from it all. As the saying goes "If you have nothing nice to say don’t say anything at all". The only time I personally feel it’s acceptable is when the horse’s welfare is a concern.
The equestrian community needs to come together, we are all amazing in our own little ways. No one ever knows it all, even the professionals of the equestrian world are learning every day as are we all.
So, if you ever stand there and feel the need to say something that could be hurtful stop and think. Is it relevant, does it really concern me? Is it even your business?
9 times out of 10 it probably isn’t but if it is please choose to help rather than belittle.
This is something I feel strongly about. Thank you for taking the time to read. if we all start trying to be more kind today the equestrian world will be a better place for everyone.