Does you plateau makes you want to jump off a ledge?

We've all been there. Working hard, putting in the hours, training your dog for agility, obedience, or rally competitions, and you hit the wall. (Open purgatory, anyone?) Progress comes to a screeching halt. It feels like you've hit an invisible wall. It might be normal - even expected - but it's frustrating as _ _ _ _.

Pushing through - having mental toughness and grit - is exactly what we're doing this month in the Membership. We need to sharpen the tools to persevere when times are tough.

Remember Your Goals

First, take a deep breath and return to your goals. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the daily grind that we forget our initial motivations and aspirations. Revisit those goals, write them down, and remind yourself why you started. Whether earning that next title, improving your dog's speed in agility, or perfecting an obedience routine, reconnecting with your original goals can reignite your passion and provide a clear direction forward.

Look Back to Move Forward

It's easy to get discouraged when looking at the progress (or lack thereof) from week to week. Instead, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Where were you and your dog a few months ago? Celebrate those small victories and use them as a reminder that progress is happening, even if it feels slow. Sometimes, seeing how far you've come is all you need to regain momentum.

Beware of Comparison

You know how I feel about comparison by now. You see your friends or competitors excelling, and suddenly, your own progress feels inadequate. But remember, every dog and handler team is unique. Comparisons can be motivating OR a major source of frustration and can make those plateaus feel even more daunting. Focus on your own journey. Celebrate your own milestones. The only comparison that matters is between where you are now and where you started.

Focus on Small Wins

Speaking of celebrating, don't forget to mark those small victories! Maybe your dog finally nailed that tricky weave pole sequence or improved their start-line stay. These small wins build momentum and boost your morale, making that plateau feel less daunting.

Visualization Techniques

Try incorporating visualization into your routine (Please! Try it!). Imagine yourself and your dog successfully completing a challenging course or maneuver. Visualization can prepare your mind and help break through mental barriers that contribute to your plateau.

Reevaluate Training Methods

Sometimes, a plateau signals that it's time to switch things up. Reevaluate your training methods. Are there new techniques or exercises you haven't tried? A fresh approach might be just what you need to break through. Are you being curious? Are you listening to your dog? Or just demanding results your way?

Mindfulness and Relaxation

Stress and anxiety can exacerbate feelings of being stuck. Incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your routine. Simple practices like deep breathing or short meditation sessions can improve focus and reduce stress, helping you and your dog perform better.

Practical Tips to Break the Plateau

• Change Up Your Routine: Sometimes, a change in training routine can spark new progress. Try different exercises, introduce new environments, or tweak your approach slightly.
• Seek Feedback: Don't hesitate to ask a coach or fellow handler for advice. A fresh set of eyes might spot something you've missed.
• Rest and Recharge: Both you and your dog need rest. Sometimes, a short break can lead to breakthroughs. It's okay to step back and recharge.

Remember, EVERYTHING is temporary - this, too, shall pass! Whether you are temporarily stuck with your experienced dog or your baby dog, remember there will be a way through. Your "comfy slipper" was once your terrible teen (ha). Take a step back if you need to, and re-approach with a fresh mindset.