Tall Poppy Syndrome and Equestrians in Business

Nicola Kinnard-Comedie MSc, BHSAI Int. SM | NKC Equestrian Training
12 minutes ago
4 min read

Nicola in a navy sweater smiles while kneeling and petting a brown and white pony outdoors. Green trees and grassy field in background. Text says, "Tall Poppy Syndrome and Equestrians in Business"

Tall Poppy Syndrome is a social phenomenon, originating in Australia and New Zealand, and recognized globally. It describes the tendency for people to “cut down” individuals who stand out for their success, ambition, or achievements, much like tall poppies that rise above the rest of the field. Instead of celebrating accomplishment, Tall Poppy Syndrome often manifests as criticism, jealousy, or subtle exclusion of those who excel, and it leads to some conflicting ideologies for those running an equestrian business.

Such as:

“Get a good job, or do well with your business, but don’t outshine your friends or family.”

“You’re at this show to win, but don’t brag.”

“Look good, make your business look good, but not too good.”

For equestrian businesses owners, Tall Poppy Syndrome can have specific and sometimes subtle impacts:

Dampened visibility and modesty
Equestrian business owners may feel compelled to downplay their achievements — for example, avoiding advertising successes, not talking about awards won, or staying under the radar — so as not to provoke envy or criticism. This can limit growth, because promoting your brand and achievements is necessary to attract clients, sponsors or partnerships.
Criticism from close quarters
Tall Poppy Syndrome doesn’t only come from external or formal sources (competitors, clients, media). Criticism often comes from one’s own circle: friends, family, and broader social network. These sources may question your success (“you’re showing off”, “horse business is risky”, “you must be lucky, not competent”) or imply you’re getting too much attention. For equestrians, where success is often tied to visible performance (competitions, social media presence, public events), this can undermine confidence and even discourage taking innovative or visible steps.
Risk aversion and limiting ambition
To avoid being seen as “too successful,” equestrian entrepreneurs might avoid scaling up, avoid taking risks, or shy away from public-facing opportunities (e.g. leading clinics, hosting high-profile events). This reduces the potential for growth, innovation, or competitive edge, and reduces the chance to grow yourself as a person.
Emotional/mental health effects
Constant criticism or undermining from one’s own social circle can lead to loss of confidence, stress, anxiety. When an equestrian feels that friends or family are disapproving or devaluing their business successes, it can erode the drive to push forward, perhaps even affect their relationships or decision-making.

Awareness is the first step to change, and identifying how Tall Poppy Syndrome could be impacting you and your equestrian business is key.

Then you have a choice - make it feel safe to shine and to continue to make decisions that move you towards your goals and dreams. You might have to re-evaluate some relationships, and look at subconscious loyalties that can be playing into Tall Poppy Syndrome - again, you have this choice.

Surround yourself with other Tall Poppies and cheer each other on, by that in person or online, by reaching out to others or by joining a Mastermind or Business Growth Program that brings a strong community.

You can model the behaviour and actions of a Tall Poppy you admire as a fellow equestrian in business. Social media allows us to connect and be inspired by others around the world, so find someone who achieved the success you want. Consider how they would approach a situation or challenge, what their thoughts or attitudes might be, and model this until it becomes natural to you.

All equestrians can also play a role in disarming Tall Poppy Syndrome. By openly sharing the realities of their journeys—the long hours, struggles, repeated setbacks—they can dispel myths of effortless privilege and highlight the universal lessons of perseverance. In doing so, they not only defend their own success but also create a healthier culture where achievement is celebrated, not resented.

Ultimately, Tall Poppy Syndrome reflects fear of difference and discomfort with excellence. For equestrians in business, the challenge is to rise above it. By doing so, they not only safeguard their own growth but also inspire others to pursue success without apology.

Nicola is smiling with a white donkey in a sunny, green outdoor setting. She wears a white top and blue pants, evoking a cheerful mood. Photo by Lillie Ratcliffe Photography — Photo by Lillie Ratcliffe Photography

Nicola Kinnard-Comedie (Msc, BHSAI Int. SM)

is the owner and founder of NKC Equestrian Training, delivering horse care training to horse owners and business and mindset coaching to equine practitioners.

Nicola is a qualified riding instructor and has over 20 years industry experience, and now uses her coaching skills to assist equine practitioners. Nicola decided to combine her experience of equestrian science, sales and marketing, and teach this to others. Nicola works with veterinary physiotherapists, massage therapists, osteopaths and other equestrians across the world to help them build their dream business. Nicola's work focuses on harnessing the power of your mindset, together with cutting edge marketing strategies to support equestrian business owners to realise the business of their dreams.

You can find out more about Nicola here: www.nkcequestrian.com

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This article is from the November issue of Equine Business Magazine