Helping, Is It Our Life Work?

Helping others can bring such joy and satisfaction. Is that true all the time? Some folks have a career helping others. Can it sometimes get monotonous?

Have you ever had to deal with someone in customer service and think they really don't enjoy their job, and you didn't feel very good about the interaction? Have you ever ended up feeling worse after an interaction with someone in a position to help, whether it was that person's job position or even volunteer position?

I believe at Prospect Riding Center, it is our mission to help others. We actually get to see our help make changes in people's lives not just for a day but for a lifetime. Personally I have tried to help others and have seen no changes. Frustrating, right? You've been there too? Maybe with a good friend, co worker or even a family member: You offer help, get a nod of recognition that your offer makes sense, but then nothing changes.

Was it an Einstein quote " insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results"? How about redirecting all that energy to a place you can help make changes?

Working with the herd helps me to be more sensitive, or more aware of the point where my help is making sense. The mules are different to work with than the horses. The mules like to have a job to do. If we clearly let them know what is expected of them it helps to reach the goal of communicating with them.

If I am giving mixed cues it isn't helping and that is a time for them to seek out the leader position. We often get some great feedback from our client's parents and caregivers as to how Riding Therapy has helped our participants. The benefits range from building self confidence, improving physical balance and strength, fostering more independence, and even relieving tension associated with math facts. After all it's more fun to count by twos and throw a basketball from the saddle!

The next time you're offering help, look for the change.