When I started taking lessons with Pat a year ago the mantra I said to myself (and the direction that was often called out to me) was, "Breathe, Vanessa!"
The mantra officially changed during my lesson on Sunday. I now say, "I'm in charge!" (while humming Mary Had a Little Lamb, of course). Every few minutes, Pat would catch Zoe and I doing whatever Zoe wanted and she would call out, "Who's in charge?" or "You set the pace and direction, not Zoe!"
I consider these new directions to be a sign of growth and improvement in my riding...I mean, I'm remembering to breathe now at least! :)
