DEAR LADIES OF LADY SADDLERS CLUB,
As we enter the fall season, what I like to call the season of change and letting go, I've been reflecting on the beauty of releasing what no longer serves us and making room for new growth.
Change is one of life's few constants. Yet, so often, we resist it. Sometimes because we're comfortable with what we know, and other times because we're afraid of what we don't.
I think about all the women in our community who made the decision to try something new by getting in the saddle for the very first time. Perhaps they were nervous, unsure of what to expect, or even questioning whether riding was for them. Yet, they took the chance. And for so many, that one decision has opened the door to newfound confidence, friendships, and joy.
That thought grounds me. What if the very thing we're resisting is the thing that could bring us the greatest joy?
We often put so much pressure on ourselves to stick to the plan. The career path we envisioned, the goals we set at the beginning of the year, the relationships we thought would last, or even the version of ourselves we thought we'd become.
But what happens when the plan no longer aligns with the person we're becoming?
I've come to realize that there's a difference between giving up and knowing when it's time to change direction.
In horseback riding, we learn that even the most carefully planned course requires adjustments. A horse may respond differently than expected, an obstacle may require a new approach, or we may simply need to slow down and regain our balance. The best riders aren't necessarily the ones who stick rigidly to the plan, but those who know how to adapt while maintaining their confidence and composure.
Life is much the same.
Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is acknowledge that something no longer serves us and give ourselves permission to pursue a different path. Changing direction doesn't mean we've failed. It means we're giving ourselves the opportunity to grow.
As we enter the final quarter of the year, I encourage you to reflect on the goals, commitments, and expectations you've been carrying. Are they still aligned with what you want? Are you pursuing something because it genuinely fulfills you, or because you feel obligated to see it through?
Remember, you are allowed to outgrow old dreams. You're allowed to redefine success. You're allowed to start over, even when you've invested time, energy, and resources into something. And perhaps most importantly, you're allowed to evolve without explaining yourself to everyone.
My challenge to you this month: Identify one area of your life where you've been resisting change. Ask yourself whether holding on is helping you grow or simply keeping you comfortable. And if it's time to let go, give yourself permission to do so.
Just as the trees release their leaves in preparation for a new season, sometimes we, too, must let go to make room for what's next.
Sometimes the most beautiful journeys begin with an unexpected turn.
Trust yourself, embrace the unknown, and never be afraid to take the reins in a new direction.
Raven Rankine,
Founder and President
