From overseeing the barn to nurturing horses and mentoring students, running a riding lesson program is a whirlwind of passion and dedication. Beneath the daily to-do list, remembering the big picture vision you have for your riding lesson program can sometimes be hard… well to see! Crafting a crystal-clear vision, actually taking the time to write it down, is going to help you keep on track when that todo list NEVER seems to get any shorter!
What is a Brand Vision?
A brand vision is more than just an idea—it's what is going to help you shape the future of your business. It’s where you want your horse business to be in 10 years, encapsulated in a super short statement that succinctly says where you are going and what you want to achieve.
Mission Statement vs. Vision Statement
Both mission and vision statements help define a brand, but they serve different purposes:
- Mission Statement: Addresses the who/what/where/how of your business at the present time.
- Vision Statement: Outlines long-term goals and aspirations for the future.
Let’s take a look at some well-known brands to see the difference:
Ariat
- Mission: To provide the most technologically advanced riding boots and apparel for equestrians worldwide, enhancing performance and comfort.
- Vision: To be the leading global brand in innovative equestrian footwear and apparel, empowering riders to perform at their best in every discipline.
SmartPak
- Mission: To simplify the lives of equestrians by offering personalized supplements and supplies that support horse health and enhance the bond between riders and their horses.
- Vision: To revolutionize the way horses are cared for by providing innovative products and expert advice that ensure every horse receives the best care possible.
Dover Saddlery
- Mission: To be the premier retailer of quality equestrian products, offering a wide range of gear and equipment that meets the needs of riders at every level.
- Vision: To create a community where equestrians can find everything they need to enjoy and excel in their equestrian pursuits, supported by exceptional customer service and expertise.
WeatherBeeta
- Mission: To provide durable, innovative, and comfortable horse blankets and equestrian apparel that protect and enhance the well-being of horses worldwide.
- Vision: To be the leading brand in equestrian protection and comfort, trusted by horse owners and professionals alike for our commitment to quality and innovation.
Absorbine
- Mission: To develop and distribute effective, high-quality equine care products that promote the health and well-being of horses.
- Vision: To be the preferred brand for horse owners seeking reliable, innovative solutions for grooming, health, and maintenance of their horses.
Why is a Brand Vision Statement Important for My Horse Business?
You might think, “I’m a small equestrian business. This isn’t important to me.” But trust me, it is. As the legendary Yogi Berra once said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.”
A vision statement acts as a compass for your horse business’s future, guiding decisions on business planning and strategy, and giving you a clear goal to focus on.
When faced with a decision, you can ask yourself if it will bring you closer to your vision. It helps you prioritize your resources, whether human, time, or financial.
Examples of Vision Statements for Horse Businesses
Any business, no matter how small, should have an idea of where it is going.
Here are a few examples:
- Mobile Large Animal Veterinary Business: “To become the largest mobile large animal vet practice in the community by 2028.”
- Horseback Riding Lesson Program: “To become the go-to lesson program for beginner riders in our community.”
- Farrier: "To be the trusted partner of horse owners across our community, renowned for our exceptional hoof care expertise, commitment to equine welfare, and dedication to advancing the standards of farriery through innovation and compassionate service."
Tips for Writing a Vision Statement for a Horse Business
Writing a vision statement isn’t as hard as it sounds. Start with where you are now and figure out where you want to be in 5-10 years. DREAM BIG with this and make this very personal to YOUR business.
Here are some tips:
- Short and Sweet: Keep it to 2 sentences at most.
- Specific: Tailor it to YOUR business.
- Be ambitious but Realistic: Set inspiring yet achievable goals.
- Inspiring: Make it something that motivates you and your team.
- Aligned with Values: Ensure it aligns with your brand values.
Bringing Your Vision to Life
Once you’ve crafted your vision, it’s time to bring it to life. This is going to take time, it’s also going to take hard work and dedication to this vision. Make sure every move you make, big or small, guides your business towards your vision!
Here are some steps to ensure your vision becomes a reality:
- Communicate Clearly: Share your vision with your team, students. Make sure your vision is found laced throughout your website and socials!
- Set Milestones: Break down your vision into smaller, achievable goals AND then CELEBRATE them when you achieve them! If you want to become the go-to beginner lesson program, what goals can you set to aim for that will get you there?
- Align Actions: Ensure every decision aligns with your vision.
Conclusion
A clear and compelling vision guides you through the ups and downs, keeps you focused on the destination, and inspires everyone around you. Your vision for your riding lesson program is more than just a dream; it’s a powerful tool that can transform your business, attract your ideal clients, and create a lasting impact in the equestrian community.
So, take a moment to dream big, be specific, and align your vision with your core values. Then, live that vision every day, and watch as your riding lesson program gallops towards a brighter future.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips on how to supercharge your horse business!
Until then, happy teaching!
Alisha Van Harn
