A big part of managing stress at work is being in the right situation for you; our US Coordinator Courtney Carson discusses the importance of knowing yourself, and your working style, when looking for a job.
"When it comes to picking a job, no matter what field you’re in, it is important that the fit is right for both employer and employee.
I would say that this is even more important in the horse world, where you’re trusted with caring for the lives and wellbeing of athletic horses who reach their peak performance level well before mental maturity.
There are a million different types of programs out there. They vary in size, level of intensity, and discipline, among many other factors. The saying “there are a million ways to skin a cat” 100% applies to finding a job in the horse world.
Being a representative of the International Grooms Association I should probably be here to tell you about the types of international programs, and how to fit in there.
But the harsh reality of international horse sport is that it is not for everyone. Guess what, that is completely ok. International programs come with a level of intensity that won't suit many people.
Do you find that you’re overwhelmed, and can’t keep up throughout the day? Or do you find yourself wishing you had more tasks on your to-do list and because of that you feel guilty for hanging around waiting until feeding time?
These are two examples of how a job can become stressful for you.
I personally feel anxiety kick in if I feel like there is something I *should* be doing. While we know there can always be something to be done in a barn, I am more goal oriented than just going through and picking stalls over and over again.
I enjoy having a larger number of horses. If I feel like all of my tasks are completed, I let my overthinking take over, and honestly begin to panic that I have overlooked something.
This kind of mindset is not for everyone. Other grooms enjoy going at their own pace, taking their time, and double-checking behind themselves.
For some people, they much prefer a smaller program where they are 100% sure that everything is done. And if they question themselves then there is more than enough time to go back and check their work. They don’t like to feel the pressure of impending tasks and a never-ending to-do list.
Both of these programs are out there and they are perfectly fine to be “your fit” of a program.
Finding the right program doesn’t just mean the size of it either.
Some people do best when left to work independently, others want a bit more guidance and help along the way. It's important to get along with your boss and receive the level of management and supervision that you are comfortable with as well.
Sometimes leaving a job is not the answer.
If you really like the position but feel that some aspects of the program need a bit of a change, try speaking to your employer about what you’re feeling.
Have you added new horses and not another staff member? Is there a horse who needs more attention and you aren’t sure how to handle it, but your employer is not taking charge and giving guidance?
Having conversations about these changes when they first arise can help prevent burnout and also give you insight into whether a program is still the right fit for you.
If you do end up looking for a new job, don’t be ashamed if your first try isn’t the right one. I went through a couple of different programs before I found what was “home” for me for over six years. I thrived in a program where others before me struggled.
This does not make any of us better or worse grooms than the others, we are just different.
Remember that your priorities are also allowed to change as you age.
Even if this means starting out in a non-FEI program or stepping away from one later on in life, everyone is going to walk a different path. Do not be ashamed or discouraged because someone walks a different one than you.
No job is worth damaging your mental or physical health for - no matter whether you think it is what you should be doing to progress your career.
If you find yourself getting stressed daily with work, take a minute and think of what is causing your stress and what would help alleviate it.
Speak with friends who work both in the industry and outside of it. Write things down, and remember that being honest with yourself and communicating well will help; don’t bottle up feelings. You’ve got this!"
IGA members can find more help and advice about managing their careers in the Member Zone of the website.
