The Power of NO

Our words hold such force, but often realizing just how much power we wield with them is not recognized. Especially words with a negative conotation. The word NO is an excellent example. It is simple in form, easy to use and often at the edge of every rider or trainer’s tongue at some point during a lesson, ride or training session. The word NO fails to give an alternative route to direct a confused horse towards success. No is also devoid of any explanation, just a simple discouragement. NO is often used thanks to failure, confusion, hesitation, frustration, anger, fear or dread.

In my own horses, I have all but eliminated the word NO in my training. I’ve since replaced it with a simple but non-specific vocal cue that lacks any negative connections that the word NO maintains. In it’s use, the voice doesn’t falter to negativity or anger, harshness or coldness. Rather it is upbeat, lively, energetic and further it encourages the horse to try again. It is followed almost immediately by a “good-boy” or “good-girl” praise. In observing the change in a horse’s demeanor substituting NO for this simple vocal cue, there is a distinct attitude shift. The horse doesn’t shut down or attempt to act out from confusion or frustration, rather they continue to try. It is ultimately motivating. Isn’t motivation what we seek to inspire in our horses almost constantly?

I came to thinking about the power of NO today as I was feeding hay. My “baby herd” has learned to stay back and give me room to dole out the hay until they are asked to come forward to eat. One of my young boys has even taken it upon himself to keep any other unruly kids in their place by protecting my space and shoving them out of the way if they try to approach the hay feeder before I’m ready. There are moments that ultimate control is most evident and inspiring - when a hungry horse is faced with food or obeying you, and in isolated novelty situations.