Self Love
Why Loving Yourself is so Important
and how to do It.
Dolly always knew she was beautiful.
How does this affect your life?
If you don’t love yourself, you’ll always feel as though something is missing.
You may feel empty inside.
You’ll seek love and validation from others — people who may not always be there, or able to give what you need.
But there is one person you can trust to love you fully: you.
Self-love isn’t selfish or arrogant. It’s the foundation of your emotional strength — the quiet inner belief that you are enough, just as you are.
It’s built on self-respect, trust in your own decisions, and an appreciation of your unique way of being in the world.
How does This Affect Your Horse?
When we don’t love ourselves, we second-guess everything. We doubt our abilities. We chase perfection, trying to be like others we see as “better” — in the horse world, in life, and even in how we treat our horses.
Improving ourselves is a good thing — but only when it comes from a place of curiosity, not comparison.
Too often, we judge ourselves against artificial ideals: the polished videos, the forceful trainers, the social media riders who seem to have it all figured out. And in doing so, we begin to ask our horses to fit into someone else’s vision — not ours.
True self-love means finding your truth. It means knowing what feels right for you and your horse — even if it goes against the mainstream. It’s not about thinking you're always right. It’s about being open-minded, willing to learn, but also willing to say, “That doesn’t feel right for us.”
When you trust yourself, your horse feels it.
They sense your calm confidence, your clarity, your grounded presence. Horses are drawn to that — just as they are to strong, centred members of their own herd.
But if you’re constantly doubting yourself, seeking approval, or needing reassurance, your horse picks up on that too. They may become unsure or anxious, mirroring your inner state.
Self-love creates the quiet strength your horse can relax into. It’s not loud or showy. It’s solid, steady, and real. And it starts with you.New paragraph
Reflection Question
What beliefs about yourself have you been carrying that might not be yours
and how might they be shaping your relationship with your horse?
Take a few quiet minutes to explore this:
“If I truly trusted myself, what would I do differently — for me, and for my horse?
Let your thoughts flow without judgment.
You may be surprised by what comes up when you allow your inner voice to speak.
It is always a good idea to write these thoughts down and see how things change when you start to follow your heart.