Have you found yourself so frustrated with this job that throwing in the towel becomes a serious consideration?

The story I’m about to share sparked a 7-plus-year return to academics, two postgraduate degrees, a U.S. patent for a novel horseshoe and a research study examining breakover.

They say, “necessity is the mother of invention.” I argue that frustration might be. I find frustration and maybe aggravation a close second to be terrific motivators.

I’m a well-reputed grouch. I’ve been one for many years. However, I embrace and own my grouchiness. Don’t let it fool you, though, I care about horses. I care about the job I do and its outcome. I make every effort to ensure a horse’s comfort, and when possible, optimize their performance. I want my clients and their horses to be happy because when they are happy, I’m happy for them. I often argue that all farriers feel this way.

Frustration: The Mother of Invention

Once upon a time, in a hunter/jumper account far, far away, I shod for a journeyman professional jumper…