Let’s talk about something we don’t discuss enough in dog training, or frankly, any small service business: the creeping, echoey voice of impostor syndrome.
You know the one. The voice that whispers,
“You should be posting more,”
“You should have 10k followers by now,”
“You’re not doing enough.”
You’re knee-deep in a behavior case, poring over the latest studies, trying to help a fearful dog take one brave step forward. Or maybe you’ve just finished a session that made you teary-eyed with pride for your client, and still, that voice chimes in. And just when you think you can will yourself past keeping up with the Hendersons, you’re joined by the constant hum of your brain doom-scrolling through the greatest hits of anxiety – age, death, financial insecurity, your daughter’s safety and future, when will your big dog’s hips get to… that point, and whatever <gestures wildly> is going on with the rest of the world. The pressure is too great, and the next thing you know, you’ve crocheted your 154th granny square and refuse to look out the window or open your laptop. And by YOU, I mean ME.
Comparison is the Thief of Joy and Sanity
We’re surrounded by perfect Instagram grids, glossy training montages, and dog pros who seem to have it all together. From beautifully branded reels to viral TikToks, it’s easy to feel like success is measured in likes, not leash manners.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t get into dog training to become a content creator. I would wager that neither did you. You got into it because you love dogs. You love people. You believe in learning and growth, and in making life better for families with paws and problems.
And while your social media metrics don’t measure marketing matters, they do reflect your worth as a trainer. It’s measured in the quiet, meaningful wins:
- A dog who sleeps soundly through the night for the first time,
- A child who confidently walks their dog to the mailbox.
- A reactive dog who pauses instead of panics.
That’s the work. That’s the value.
You’re Hiring a Dog Trainer, Not a Media Influencer
At Good Human Dog Training, we invest our energy where it matters: in continuing education, real-world results, and compassionate behavior change.
That means we may not be the flashiest trainer in your feed. We may not have the perfect Reel of your dog’s “before and after” moment. But we’ll have the research, the strategy, and the patience to help your dog learn, and to help you feel seen and supported every step of the way.
This is a calling, not a content calendar. And we’re okay with that.
Let’s Normalize the Hard Stuff
We often discuss behavior challenges in dogs, but we don’t always acknowledge the human side, especially the mental health strain that comes with trying to be enough, do enough, and post enough.
So here’s what we want you to hear, whether you’re a fellow trainer or a loving dog guardian scrolling for help:
- It’s okay to step away from the noise.
- It’s okay not to be everything to everyone.
- It’s okay to prioritize your peace.
We believe that mental health is a form of professional development. That rest fuels better work. That walking away from your phone to walk your dog is never wasted time.
A Note to the Humans Trying Their Best
To every dog guardian who’s feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice online,
To every trainer doubting whether they’re doing “enough”,
To everyone who has ever stared at a blinking cursor wondering what to post…
You are already doing something powerful by showing up with curiosity, compassion, and care.
Let’s give ourselves permission to be good humans, not perfect ones.
