As 2018 nears its end, I have been thinking about what I have learned this year and how I (as a trainer) can improve. It turns out that my most important learning is a skill that I have been working on for many years--PATIENCE! 

--PATIENCE in designing a training plan in small enough steps so that my pup can learn successfully. 

--PATIENCE in working with my pup in short training sessions that are not more than 15 minutes. (Even if I have to travel 20 minutes EACH WAY to get to the elevator that I need to teach the pup how to ride without fear!)

--PATIENCE to go back to the beginning when necessary.

--PATIENCE to end a training session on a successful note and not try for 'just ONE more.'

--PATIENCE to breathe when things are not going as well as I would like.

--PATIENCE to recognize how much progress my dog has made in a relatively short time, even though it has been a series of tiny steps.

--PATIENCE to take the time to CELEBRATE with my pup when she does well!

So, my resolution for 2019, is to practice, practice, practice PATIENCE!

My 2019 wish for every one of you is a year full of joy, love, and patience with your furry (and non-furry) family.                                           

Betsy