We all know we shouldn’t compare ourselves to others. Especially not in horse training, and especially not in liberty — where the whole point is connection, not competition.

And yet…
There you are, watching someone’s video, seeing their horse lie down or canter at liberty or breeze through Level 7, and suddenly your own journey feels… not good enough.

Sound familiar?

You’re not alone. I’ve been there too. I remember watching someone’s beautiful Level 8 submission and thinking, “That’s amazing… but I’m miles behind.” Even though I knew better. Even though I teach people not to think like that!

So why do we fall into the comparison trap — and how can we stop it from stealing our joy?

Let’s dive in.

Why Do We Compare Ourselves to Others?

Comparison is human. It’s wired into us. Our brains look around and try to measure where we fit. It’s not about being shallow — it’s about trying to feel safe, accepted, and like we’re “doing it right.”

Add in social media — with its polished videos and proud posts — and you’ve got a constant stream of highlight reels that make everyone else’s progress look effortless.

And liberty, by its nature, is often a wiggly, non-linear path. There’s no checklist, no rulebook, and no exact timeframe. So it’s tempting to latch onto someone else’s visible success as a marker of where you “should” be.

But here’s the thing: someone else’s liberty journey has nothing to do with yours. Their horse is different. Their background is different. Their challenges are different. And their wins? They’re not yours to copy — they’re yours to cheer for.

What Comparison Costs Us

It’s more than just a moment of self-doubt. Regular comparison can quietly chip away at everything good in your training:

• It steals your joy. Instead of celebrating your own breakthroughs — however small — you find yourself dismissing them.

• It creates pressure. You rush things. You push when you should pause. You feel like you’re “behind” when actually, you’re exactly where you need to be.

• It disconnects you. You start to feel like you don’t belong — like you’re not good enough to be part of the community that’s meant to lift you up.

• It feeds imposter syndrome. You question your place, your progress, even your passion.

Sound harsh? That’s what comparison does. It’s sneaky. But the good news is — you can stop it in its tracks.

What to Focus On Instead

If you find yourself looking sideways, here are some much more useful places to look:

1. Your Horse’s Feedback

That’s your true progress bar. Are they more relaxed? More connected? Do they offer more? Trust you more? Choose to stay with you?
That’s the magic. And it’s far more valuable than any trick or title.

2. How It Feels

Don’t just chase the visual. Ask yourself — how does this session feel? Is it joyful? Peaceful? Curious? Empowering?
Your liberty training should light you both up.

3. Your Own Yesterday

Progress isn’t about where someone else is. It’s about where you were last week, last month, last year. Did you both take one more step forward today? Then you're doing brilliantly.

4. Your Liberty Path

Whether you’re exploring Level 1 or refining Level 10, you’re on your journey. And it’s valid, powerful, and worthy of celebration every step of the way.

Five Ways to Break the Comparison Habit

Want to stop the scroll-spiral? Here are five practical tips that work:

1. Put the Phone Down

Seriously. Especially on the days you’re feeling low or frustrated. Protect your energy.

2. Keep a Win Journal

After each session, jot down three things that went well — however tiny. Reinforce your progress.

3. Celebrate Others Loudly

Instead of feeling small, flip the script. Leave a comment. Cheer them on. Their win doesn’t take away from your own.

4. Let Inspiration Lift You

Watch videos not to compare, but to learn. What ideas can you take? What energy can you borrow?

5. Reconnect to Your Why

Why did you start liberty training? For freedom? Connection? Trust?

That’s what really matters — not tricks, not badges, not likes.

How Liberty Horse UK Supports You (Not the Comparison Trap)

We never want you to feel like you're not enough here. That’s not what Liberty Horse UK is about.

Here’s how we support your unique journey:

• The Progress Awards let you track your personal growth — not rank you against others.
  

• The community is filled with people at all levels, sharing honestly, supporting openly.
  

• Coaching calls help you focus on your next step, not someone else’s finish line.
  

• Member stories like Susie’s (who started at Level 1 and is now flying at Level 10!) remind us all that slow progress is still progress.

You don’t need to be perfect to be proud.

In Conclusion: Stay in Your Own Lane

Comparison might be common — but it doesn’t have to control you.

Your liberty journey is between you and your horse. It’s not a race. It’s not a performance. It’s a partnership. And it’s yours.

So next time that comparison voice pipes up, gently remind it:
“I’m not here to be anyone else. I’m here to walk my path, with my horse, in my own time.”

And then go do just that. You’re doing great. Truly.

Want to Take the Next Step?

🟡 If you’re struggling to stay motivated or want a clearer plan, check out the Progress Awards — the next submission window is open from 7th–13th July.
🟢 Or join our next group coaching call and share where you’re at. You’ll be amazed how many others feel exactly the same.

✨ Your journey matters. And we’re so glad you’re on it with us.