21/11/2025
A Personal Reflection
Lately I have been feeling the weight of running a small business more than usual. People often expect so much from a business owner, especially a small business owner, and sometimes forget that we are still human. We get tired. We get overwhelmed. We feel hurt. We feel pressure. We feel everything.
This year I tried to do things differently. I created tuition options. I updated policies. I set clearer boundaries to protect my time, my horses, and my energy. I wanted a healthier and more structured program for everyone who comes here. But even with all of that, I still found myself stretched thin and carrying more than most people will ever see.
I have also learned something very important this year. As a barn owner, it is not my responsibility to financially supplement other peoples hobbies. I cannot carry the financial load for late payments, missed payments, or ongoing excuses. I care deeply about the people and horses in my program, but it cannot come at the cost of my own stability. My business, my animals, and my family rely on me to keep things running, and that means holding firm to the policies I set.
There are decisions I have had to make recently that were incredibly hard for me. Decisions that were necessary for the safety of my animals and the well being of my business. Even when something is the right choice, it does not make it easy. It hurts when people push your limits or when you realize someone has taken advantage of your kindness.
Running this place is personal for me. It is my heart. It is my passion. It is my entire life. I care deeply about the riders, the families, the animals, and the experience I try to create here. And when people forget that I am human, it hits deeper than they probably realize.
But I am learning. I am learning that it is okay to have boundaries. It is okay to say this is too much. It is okay to protect my peace and the energy I pour into this place every single day. I am learning that I do not have to carry everything for everyone.
To the families and riders who support what I do, who understand the effort behind the scenes, and who treat this place and these animals with respect, thank you. Your kindness means more to me than I can ever express. You are the reason I keep going even on the hard days.
I am still growing. I am still healing. I am still finding my balance. And I am thankful for the people who see the heart behind Pinoak Acres and stand with me through the ups and downs.
Thank you for being here with me. ❤️🌿🐴
