Why Brits Are Terrible at Celebrating Themselves (And How to Stop It)

"I’m Fine, It Was Nothing" – The British Curse 

Raise your hand if this sounds familiar: 

- You finally nail that canter transition you’ve been working on, and when someone compliments you, you say: 

"Oh, it was just luck—he’s a good horse!" 

- You complete a clear round, but instead of feeling proud, you think: 

  "Yeah, but it was only 60cm… and I messed up the turn." 

- You spend more time replaying mistakes than enjoying progress. 

"I haven't progressed at all. I'm letting my horse down"

Here’s the problem: 

We Brits are masters at brushing off achievements. We’re so afraid of seeming arrogant that we end up feeding our own self-doubt. 

But here’s the truth: If you don’t champion yourself, who will? 

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Why We Do This (And Why It’s Holding You Back) 

1. The "Mustn’t Show Off" Mentality 

- British culture teaches us to downplay success. "Oh, it was nothing!" is practically a national catchphrase. 

- But in riding? Confidence requires acknowledging progress. 

2. Your Brain Loves Negatives 

- Science fact: Our brains are wired to remember bad experiences more than good ones (thanks, evolution). 

- Result? You forget 10 good rides but replay one mistake forever. 

3. You Think Humility = Not Celebrating Wins 

- Newsflash: You can be humble and proud. 

- Try this: Swap "It was okay, I guess" for "I worked hard for that—I’m chuffed!" 

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How to Be Your Own Cheerleader (Without Feeling Cringe) 

1. The "3 Wins" Rule 

- After every ride, write down 3 things that went well—no matter how small. 

  - "I stayed calm when he spooked." 

  - "My position felt stronger." 

  - "I actually enjoyed myself!" 

- Struggling? Start with "I got on the horse. That counts." 

2. Ban These Phrases 

- ❌ "It was nothing." 

- ❌ "Anyone could’ve done it." 

- ✅ Replace with: "I’m proud of that." or simply "Thank You"

3. Brag (Yes, Really) 

- Text a mate: "Just had a great ride—feeling proud!" 

- Post a clip with "Small win today!" 

- Why? Saying it out loud rewires your brain to believe it. 

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What Happens When You Start Celebrating Yourself? 

- You’ll ride more confidently (because you’re focusing on what you can do). 

- You’ll enjoy it more (because you’re not stuck in criticism mode). 

- You’ll inspire others (because guess what? Most riders feel the same way). 

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Final Thought 

It’s not arrogance to acknowledge your progress—it’s survival. The more you celebrate yourself, the easier riding (and life) becomes. 

So go on. Give yourself some credit.