Growing up, I spent a lot of time around the world’s best farriers as they came to our home and were trained by my father, Dr. Doug Butler. I was able to work side-by-side with many of them as they became master craftsmen and learned the fundamentals of farriery. I also have worked and consulted with farriers from around the world.

This chance to observe has given me a unique perspective on the habits and behaviors of success. I want to share 10 traits I’ve learned from observing these habits and behaviors up close so you can use them in your life and farrier business.

1. Ambitious And Resistant To Complacency

It used to be that a farrier could expand their business steadily over time. Today, change happens quickly and the best farriers force themselves and his or her business to change for the better. The best farriers choose not to just react to the changes they see — they proactively prepare for the future they want to create.

The top professionals in any industry rarely permit themselves a moment of mental rest. They are always simultaneously implementing what is working now and at the same time planning a replacement for when it is no longer working. Being content with getting by isn’t the behavior of top professionals in any field.

Farriers must be responsive to the constant changes around them: client demands, understanding horse anatomy and conformation so the proper farrier work can be done in any situation, threats…