I Thought I Knew What I Wanted: Trying Horses in Florida

This week I flew to Florida to try horses.I thought I knew exactly what I was looking for. I had a plan. I had advice. I had a checklist.What I didn’t have was certainty.After losing horses, starting over more than once, and learning lessons I never intended to learn, the pressure to “get it right” feels sharper than ever. Not because of outside noise — but because of a quiet internal clock.Over several days, I sat on horses that were safe, talented, green, surprising… and not quite right.For the first time in my riding life, I wasn’t just told “this is it.” I had to feel the difference myself.This episode is about contrast. About understanding what is — and isn’t — your ride. About the balance between buying something finished and building something with room to grow. About trusting your trainer… and trusting yourself.And about what it feels like when everything finally fits.Now we wait.Takeaways:The journey of exploring equestrian opportunities can lead to unexpected realizations about one's own aspirations.Despite initial excitement, feelings of pressure can overshadow the joy of pursuing a passion for horses.Engaging in equestrian activities provides a unique opportunity to evaluate personal preferences and riding styles.The experience of trying multiple horses can reveal significant insights into one's own riding instincts and preferences.A supportive community can greatly enhance the journey of finding the right horse, making it feel less solitary.The contrast between different riding experiences can clarify what one truly seeks in their equestrian pursuits.