There’s something about the beginning of a new year that feels like taking a deep breath during a gorgeous pasture ride.
It’s like a quiet license to let go of the things that hold you back.
It’s the spirit of – out with the old – let’s go with the new, baby!
And the best news? We can let go of what holds us back and focus forward.
Letting go turns our attention toward what we actually want—not something we’re trying to prove, or what we think we should do.
That could mean improving specific riding skills, building confidence, or enjoying your horse in the simplest ways.
When you dare to move in the direction of what you really want, something changes. You live in an exciting world of possibility.
It’s knowing that this year could really be different.
I’ve been thinking a lot about ‘defining’ success in 2026—what it means, and what it looks like.
Here are three ways I believe ‘success’ can last, be meaningful, and can be measured ~ outwardly or inwardly (as known only by you).
1) Learning and growth — in the saddle and within ourselves
Physically: perhaps new skills mastered, timing refined, balance improved, a new movement comes together… or just knowing you’re finally starting to get it.
Mentally and emotionally: being true to yourself, practicing presence, and choosing clear and empowering thoughts.
Sometimes you can see growth: your horse is straighter, your transitions are cleaner, you use your legs and hands more accurately and methodically.
And other times, the most essential learning happens inside of you:
- You breathe instead of bracing.
- You soften rather than tensing when things get hairy.
- You stay kind to yourself instead of turning against yourself inside when you’re disappointed.
2) Cultivating relationships — with horses and people
As relationships become more trusting and time is spent together, connection (what we humans crave) happens naturally.
Relationships first – connection happens organically.
At the heart of great riding is an excellent relationship with a horse: communication, consistency, and trust.
Our human desire to connect applies to people, too: the trainers, friends, barn mates, and community you build around you – the ones who share your horse-soul that the “real world” 
doesn’t always get.
Building trusting relationships with people spawns connection, too.
Genuine connection – horses or people, are gold— one of the most meaningful experiences of our lives – and a measure of success according to us.
3) Making a difference
This third measure of success is one I haven’t discussed often in the past, but research (and my own experience) keeps confirming: at the heart of a meaningful life is a genuine desire to make a difference in someone else’s life.
It’s not about how ‘big’ it is, it’s about authentic caring.
And similar to connection, our human spirit is drawn to supporting others.
It might be something easily recognized, like teaching, mentoring, or volunteering.
Or, it may be subtly encouraging, as in comforting someone who’s struggling, making sure a nervous friend knows you’re there for them, or giving a compliment to someone you know doubted their ability after a funky mistake.
How we encourage/help/support/make someone else feel – is the legacy we all leave behind, above all else – not because we expect recognition—but because we yearn to contribute to the world around us with no expectation of acknowledgement.
It most often happens in quiet moments. I love that.
The best news of all…
When you think about success this year, consider the outward measures: improved riding skills, show results, and meeting goals.
Also consider the things that last and are experienced internally: a growing sense of safety within yourself, confidence that keeps growing, the ability to stay grounded and present, no matter the situation, and wonderful relationships.
Those are my wishes for you this year—success that’s genuinely meaningful to you, the kind that not only makes you more competent, softer, and more connected to your horse, but most importantly, personally fulfilled in things that last.
Now I’d love to hear about you.
What are you letting go of?
What are you hoping for?
What does “success” mean to you in 2026?
What’s your next step?
Please reply to this email with your thoughts, and let me know.
As always, I’ll be cheering you on.
What are some ideas for improving your relationship with your horse.