• Mary Ann "Skipper"
  • 2017
  • 0
Always Dreaming

Credit: Eclipse Sportswire/Getty Images

Many of us watchedthe Run for the Rosesin the 143rd Kentucky Derby.It is the first race in the Triple Crownand shifts our attention to horse racing.

Gerlando Spotto, CSC, NLP,uses the metaphor of riding a horseto ride your life.Spotto suggests that in riding and in life,we take the reins of a situationand do so with awarenessto create the experience we want.

R = Responsibility & Results Once we recognize our responsibility,we recognize our power.Determine the results that are important to youand be responsible for making them happen.

I = Identity & Independence Identity is the core of everything.Having deep self-awareness impactshow we see the world.It is the beginning of freedom-“freedom from” and “freedom to.”

D = Decision & Determination We are constantly making decisions.When they align with our identity and purpose,our quality of actions and results improve.Ask yourself these three questionsas the answers will define the quality of your life.

1. Where do you focus?2. What meaning do you attribute to certain events?3. What actions do you take?

E = Enjoy & Energy What do you enjoy?How would your life and job change ifenjoyment was living inside you constantly?We also need energy to accomplish any activity.How do you refuel yourself?

Spotto uses this metaphor and you can too.See the exercise below and read it as though riding a horse.

Metaphor for the RIDE

•  When you want to go somewhere, you have to look and focus on that point.

•  At any moment, unexpected things can happen, you have to manage them.

•  If you don’t lead the horse, it will lead you.

•  Successful people are those who trained themselves to get what they want from riding.

•  The more skills you have, the more you will enjoy your riding.

•  What you send out is what you get back.

•  The more connected you are with your true self, the better your ride will be.

•  The emotions you feel are the emotions that characterize your riding.

Now, read it again and exchange “riding,” “ride” and “horse” with “life.” (You can also substitute life with business, sports or relationships.)

*Source: Choice Magazine, Volume 14

While your horse may not have won the Derby,when you RIDE your life,you will have a winning attitude andan amazing experience.

Let me know if you clicked on the RIDE metaphor. I’d love to hear your thoughts.