Have you ever read about something that grabs your attention, and suddenly everything you see, every interaction you have, runs through that new filter? That’s been my life for the past two weeks as I prepare for our free webinar later this month on Boundaries in the Barn.

One thing that makes me chuckle is realizing that my obsession with boundaries, in every interaction I have with both horses and humans, might actually be a boundary concern for me. After all, I’m the one fixated on it. Seeing everything through one lens could easily affect my ability to recognize others as separate individuals with their own needs, perspectives, and agendas. My agenda isn’t theirs.

That said, diving into a topic and challenging yourself to explore something new is a wonderful tool for growth. There’s real value in letting your curiosity take over, even to the point of obsession, and allowing it to change how you see the world.

I remember as a young man becoming fascinated by ragtime guitar. Stefan Grossman, a ragtime guitar guru, had published a book of tunes adapted for guitar, and I dove in headfirst. Few things have ever captured my attention with such intensity. Practice became a joy. And before long, I noticed that everything I played was filtered through that ragtime rhythm.

The obsession didn’t last forever, but the effect did. My overall playing improved, and even years later, I’d catch my fingers slipping into a syncopation or picking pattern from The Salty Dog Rag or Hard Hearted Hannah.

So my encouragement for you today is this: dive deep. Learn something new. Try on a new pair of “glasses” and look at the world through that lens for a while. Then pay attention to how you grow and change as that experience becomes part of you. My guess, as always, is that our horses will appreciate it. ~Paul

PC – Erin Gilmore Photography Glasses by AI

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