Any web search on “how to achieve a goal” will yield a seemingly endless list of articles. Likewise, search on “why are some people more successful than others” to find even more advice on self-improvement.

Think about those farriers with tremendous “talents,” yet fall short of their goals to achieve their ultimate goals. Or those who fall short, but continue to surround themselves with unmotivated naysayers. In both of these circumstances, many who fall short ignore the truth staring at them. Often, these lead to projection and jealousy, looking at farriers who hit their goals as people who “just got lucky” and don’t deserve their success.

Farriers are a unique group of dedicated individuals who must work and study hard to advance their lives. It takes years after attending schools and/or an apprenticeship to simply find out where you want to work, what type of work you want and then, and only then, think about the financial part of being a successful farrier. During that time, mentors, associates and like-minded people generously share their perspectives on what it takes to succeed. However, some of them have strong opinions on the subject, but wear blinders as to why their goals have to be met.

What Does it Take?

From the decades I have invested into this industry, I know there are no shortcuts. The qualities of success for a farrier are not different from many other industries. However, this can be more complex for farriers when factoring in reasons like personality, attitude, patience, temper and commitment. I have seen farriers who are so close to achieving their business and personal goals become hindered or completely derailed by the person in the back of the room who offers negativity. This convinces the person to go in a different direction, rather than continue on the correct path.

How do we get past this as an industry? I don’t have that answer, but I do have the solution for the individual. Ignore the naysayers and emulate the successful farrier. These selfless people have much more to offer than anyone knows. Most dedicate their lives to learning as much as possible and then giving back to our industry. They give their all any time they speak or provide a demonstration. When they share, these farriers give away books of information. Our responsibility is to listen. One must be reasonable and understand that no one, no matter who they are, can give you the secret in one meeting, one talk or one lecture.  

But those who focus on the negative chirping choose not to listen to the lessons from these successful farriers. Many times, negativity pollutes others with “reasons” why to avoid or reject certain farriers or professionals. Whatever the motivation, this stifles the growth of the individual and growth of our collective professionalism.

What do we see when looking at a professional farrier? Do you see a nice home or awesome shoeing rig? If we focus on “things,” we only see the destination, but fail to see the journey that it took to acquire those homes, trucks, etc. If you are struggling, learn about how they got there. How hard did they have to work to get there? What other traits enabled success? We all have the capability as farriers to achieve success. These are the characteristics I wrote about farriers I admire. Unsatisfied with your place in the industry? Take note and adopt these traits.

1. Have a Vision

Successful people envision what is going to be, much like a farrier who can draw a clear picture of the foot they are working on and what they can achieve with that foot. Emulate the farrier who knows what their life will be and what they want to achieve. Like a true artist, they can see their goals. Close your eyes — what is the life you picture for yourself?

2. Maintain Focus

Successful farriers take the steps required to help them stay on track and avoid distractions (ignoring those talking at the back of the room during a lecture). They take a task and keep at it until they have achieved their desired results.

3. Passion

Successful farriers are  driven in life. When they speak about their work or lives, their faces light up. They love what they do. They have a strong sense of belonging to their work, to their families — in every sphere of life including their work. 

4. Stay Positive

You can’t be a successful farrier if you think your goals and success are unachievable. A positive farrier always believes there is a way and that things will work out in the end. Most of the time we are our worst enemy by harboring negative thoughts about why things cannot be done, instead of focusing on one small thing that will get you to where you need to be.

5. Be a Life-Long Learner

Successful farriers refuse to stay the same person they were yesterday. They constantly strive to grow not only at hoof care but also in relationships, intellect, knowledge and spirituality. Most are open-minded and learn both sides before deciding what is best for their horses and their lives.

6. Failure

Successful farriers are not afraid to fail. Successful farriers accept failure and move on. They do not give up no matter the circumstances. They know there are many or several ways to achieve a goal. They learn from their mistakes, but never forget what those setbacks taught them.

7. Hard Workers

You might think successful farriers have a bit of luck with them, but they created their luck by working hard. They believe if they work hard, they don’t require luck. They believe in creating their destiny, instead of waiting for things to happen. They know that there is no substitute for hard work. They put in their best day-in, day-out until they achieve the desired results.

8. Help Others Achieve Their Goals

Successful farriers push others to also succeed. They are never threatened by the success of others, including business competitors. Instead, they motivate others to be the best version of themselves. When was the last time you helped another farrier to be successful?

9. Be a Dreamer

Successful farriers dare to dream, and don’t want to remain in ruts. They take calculated risks to make their dreams come true.

10. Integrity

Integrity cannot be overlooked. High moral and ethical principles tells others about your character.

11. Gratitude

Successful farriers are always thankful for their relationships, their lives, well-being, families, work, businesses, clients and happiness. They give back to the industry and their communities because they are thankful for what they have received. When was the last time you thanked someone?   

12. Move on

This is possibly the most important point to remember. Don’t let any one thing define you. Don’t let your past mistakes haunt you. Get past them as soon as possible and persevere.