We’re coming up on the two year anniversary of the launch of my business, Warner Equine. I started this column, From the Ground Up, roughly around the same time as an opportunity to follow along in the process of becoming a business owner, and living life as a young professional.
Running a business working with horses is an incredibly fun adventure. Photo by Julia Dillavou Photography.
Most of my content over the past two years have been specifically focused on the reflections I’ve had in my work… covering topics such as social media, networking, focusing your purpose, and light-bulb moments in training. The topics have covered themes and material that are on my mind and a priority in my day to day.
So it’s maybe no surprise that the topics haven’t focused much on maintaining a personal life outside of work, attempting to strike that elusive work-life balance that people always discuss… because I haven’t done a great job in doing so.
The day to day schedule can feel too structured for much flexibility – between working horses, scheduling lessons, and managing the admin work of the business, it’s easy just to keep going, and hard to get off of the farm. I’m lucky in that I love my work, and will happily fit in an extra ride or lesson where I can, but that often means being late to social engagements, foregoing that extra hour of sleep, or skipping the self-care routine I attempted to commit to because I was just too tired.
Recently though, as the cold weather has been setting in, I’ve felt the lack of time I’ve maintained for myself creep up in achey joints and a stiff body. A bit concerning for only being 24, so I finally made (and kept!) an appointment with my doctor, got a referral for some physical therapy, and start regular appointments this week.
Blocking out some extra time to care for myself physically has made me realize it’s possible to do so, and important to also find time to recharge mentally. When I take time for myself, I feel better, and can therefore put more focus and energy into my work… a shocker, I know. With that, I’ve made a bigger effort to connect with friends near and far, scheduling time for late night ice cream runs, a phone call over lunch, or spending the afternoon in non-horsey clothes wandering around town. I’m looking at getting back into kickboxing, or picking up some (much needed) cooking or art classes to try something new.
I always love a trip to NYC to visit the coolest sister!
Holding the time for myself now has made it so obvious how little emphasis I put on it the last two years. I love my work, but I am more than my work. In order to continue doing what I love for a long time, I need to make time for myself to be physically and mentally capable for what lies ahead, and create a life that’s balanced and diverse to have the energy to stay engaged, passionate, and curious.
As we continue pushing on through the winter, getting ready for the New Year and all that lies ahead, here’s a reminder to find time to give to yourself so you can continue giving to your communities. Cheers to another year of good horses, great people, and fun adventures!
