The Right Kind of Busy: What Ranch Life Taught Us About Pacing

If you asked most rodeo families what life looks like, they’d probably say “busy” — and then add “crazy,” “non-stop,” or “never a dull moment.” That’s our reality, and it’s part of what makes us tough, adaptable, and resourceful.

But busy isn’t always better. At Rad Rodeo, we’ve learned that knowing how to pace yourself through the madness is just as important as working hard. It’s the difference between burnout and brilliance — between frustration and flow.

Busy, But Not Overwhelmed

On the ranch, the work never really ends:

• Feeding horses before dawn.

• Checking pens in the midday heat.

• Managing breeding schedules.

• Juggling kids’ rodeo practices and schoolwork.

• Coaching runs and planning competition weekends.

It’s easy to pile it all on and try to do everything at once.

But what ranch life teaches us is this: pacing isn’t about doing less — it’s about doing right.

Learning to Prioritize What Matters

We’ve found that breaking the day into doable chunks helps keep the chaos from taking over:

• Morning chores done with full focus — no distractions.

• Scheduled breaks for family time or just catching breath.

• Setting clear goals for each day — both big and small.

• Saying “no” to things that don’t align with what truly matters.

That discipline lets us be fully present whether we’re saddling a horse or helping a kid through a tough run.

Rest Is Part of the Ride

Here’s a secret that ranch life has hammered home: rest isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.

• A tired rider makes mistakes.

• An exhausted horse can’t perform.

• A burnt-out parent can’t support the team.

We build rest into our routine like we build workouts — because it keeps everyone strong and ready to go.

Teaching Kids to Manage Their Own Pace

Our kids grow up watching this rhythm play out daily. We encourage them to:

• Recognize when they’re feeling overwhelmed.

• Take a step back to regroup.

• Focus on progress, not perfection.

• Celebrate small wins that lead to big results.

This isn’t just about rodeo or ranch work — it’s life skills that will carry them far.

Final Thoughts

The right kind of busy is about balance. It’s about hustle with heart.

At Rad Rodeo, we believe success comes from pacing yourself — knowing when to push hard and when to slow down. That way, you can give your best, day in and day out.

Because life, like a great run, is about rhythm, flow, and finishing strong.

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Ann-Marie Fenner

Ranch Manager, Breeder, Rodeo Mom RadRodeo.com