Why we get in our own way in dog training
We all know them - these inner mechanisms with which we try to avoid the unpleasant. They often happen unconsciously. They keep us in our comfort zone - where it is safe, familiar and comfortable. In sport, it's called the "inner bastard".
Our minds find a thousand reasons why we can't go jogging today: "The weather is too cold." "I have a headache." "I have more important things to do." But we also encounter precisely these mechanisms in dog training.
Avoidance instead of growth
Many people prefer to do the exercises with their dog that already work. They avoid the situations in which it becomes unpleasant or difficult. If they have two dogs, they only train the one that is easier. If a dog doesn't do what it should, they smile about it - instead of looking at it. But this laughter is often not humor, but a protective mechanism. It protects us from confronting our own insecurities or limitations. This makes training superficial - and no real progress is made.
Excuses are comfort zones in disguise
If you take an honest look, you'll notice: Almost every excuse in training has the same origin - avoidance.
"Today is not the right day."
"It won't work anyway."
"I don't want to spoil it for myself."
"I'd rather take the other route."
But these are all just strategies to avoid having to go through the real process. Because change is exhausting. It requires courage, honesty - and discipline. But it is precisely where it becomes uncomfortable that growth begins - in dogs and in people.
Awareness is the first step
It's not about being perfect. It's about recognizing your own avoidance strategies. So if you notice that you're laughing again when it's actually serious - recognize the mechanism. If you talk about it more instead of actually training - recognize the mechanism. If you avoid dog encounters even though that's exactly what you want to do - recognize the mechanism. This awareness is the first step towards change. Because you can only change what you recognize.
Growth lies outside the comfort zone
If you really want to resolve the issues with your dog, you have to be prepared to step out of your comfort zone. It's sometimes uncomfortable out there, but that's where development happens - real, lasting change. Your dog grows as you grow. And your progress together begins exactly where you dare to take an honest look.
Conclusion
Dog training is not an escape from the uncomfortable - it's a journey through the uncomfortable. The comfort zone keeps you safe, but it also keeps you small. Courage, awareness and consistency will take you further - and your dog too. Because only those who lead themselves can also lead their dog.
Do you want to learn how to recognize your avoidance strategies and turn them into real leadership? Then start with your free initial consultation!
