The Year of the Horse: Courage to Try Something New

Every year carries its own energy, and in many cultures the Year of the Horse symbolizes movement, strength, freedom, and courage. Horses represent forward motion. They remind us that life is not meant to stay still. It’s meant to evolve, change direction, and sometimes push us outside of our comfort zones.

The Year of the Horse is often associated with shedding the old and embracing the new. It’s about letting go of doubts that have been holding us back and stepping into experiences that help us grow. That message resonated with me deeply this year, especially after something I did last month.

Last month, I got back on the back of an actual horse for the first time in nearly ten years.

Years ago, a friend of mine taught me how to ride western style. She introduced me to the basics and even encouraged me to try a little barrel racing. It was thrilling, a little scary, and a lot of fun. Unfortunately, she eventually moved away with her horses, and life got busy. Work, family, responsibilities — riding slowly disappeared from my routine.

Before I knew it, ten years had passed.

Then a friend invited me to a “brunch and learn” event at the Lakeside Polo Club. They were offering an introduction to polo, and the moment I heard about it I felt excited. Not just about polo, but about the chance to get back on a horse again.

At the same time, I was a little nervous.

Would I remember how to ride?
Would I fall off?
Would I look completely out of place after such a long break?

But curiosity won.

The day started an introduction to the sport. We learned how polo works, how to hold the mallet, and how the game is played while riding. Then came the moment of truth — getting on the horses.

At first, I felt that little wave of intimidation. Ten years is a long time.

But once I was sitting in the saddle and the horse started moving, something surprising happened. It felt like riding a bike. My body remembered more than I expected.

Of course, playing polo was another story. Trying to swing a mallet and hit a ball while riding a moving horse is definitely a challenge. But it was so much fun. We cantered across the field, tried to hit the ball, and even practiced riding each other off to push toward the goal.

The horses were incredible. Calm, strong, and responsive. The coaches were patient and encouraging, and the whole experience felt energizing.

Afterwards we had Btunch, laughed and made plans to come back.

That day reminded me of something important.

Sometimes the hardest part of trying something new is simply showing up and starting.

Related: The Powerof Women who show up

Which brings me back to the Year of the Horse.

To me, the symbolism of the horse is about momentum. It’s about courage. It’s about trusting yourself enough to move forward even when you’re not completely sure how things will turn out.

This year, I’m taking that lesson into my own work as well.

I’m planning to offer new creative workshops that I’ve never hosted before. New ideas. New formats. New experiences.

And honestly, it’s a little scary.

Will people buy tickets?
Will they enjoy the workshops?
Will they leave reviews?
Or will they flop completely?

But the truth is, I’ll never know unless I try.

Growth always carries some uncertainty. Whether it’s stepping onto a polo field for the first time in ten years or launching a new idea that feels exciting but vulnerable.

The Year of the Horse reminds us that life moves forward when we do.

So this year, I’m choosing courage. I’m choosing curiosity. I’m choosing to try new things even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

And I hope you will too.

Maybe it’s learning a new skill. Trying a creative hobby. Joining a workshop. Starting a project you’ve been thinking about for months.

Whatever it is, let this be your reminder to shed the old doubts and bet on yourself.

Because sometimes the most rewarding adventures begin the moment we decide to get back in the saddle.

So here’s my question for you:

What new thing will you try this year?