Guilty Pleasure
EC Blog by: Allyson Hicks
This year is a big one for me. I’ll be turning 50, and I’ve spent some time pondering how I’ve spent my last 50 years and how I plan to spend my next 50 or so. Time and resources are becoming more precious. We could, and probably should, be putting more money towards retirement.
As you well know, showing horses isn’t a cheap sport. I often find myself feeling pretty guilty, not only about the money, but also about the time I spend away from my family and the way I prioritize my personal time and effort. Boy, that was a mouthful. Here’s what it looks like on paper… I need a housekeeper, possibly a chef, and certainly a personal assistant. I better add marriage counselor so I don’t have to add attorney to the list… I think you get the idea. Thank goodness I have a very loving and thoughtful family!
However, I have come to the conclusion that I have more “Should Haves” than “Should Not Haves” in my life right now. That’s not to say I’m living a life of regret. It’s more along the lines of now is the time for me to enjoy my good health and celebrate where I am in the world. I don’t want to wait another decade to find out that I have, yet again, more “Should Haves.”
If I had to rate showing horses on a scale of 1 to 10, I would have to rate this year’s experience as a 9.5. It’s been a great year full of challenges and fun, meeting some truly exceptional people, and seeing some incredibly talented horses and riders. Don’t get me wrong, there have been some low times, but mostly I’ve been having the time of my life and my family and friends can see it.
I hope your horse show experience is fulfilling. If not, I would really suggest taking a long look and asking yourself why the experience isn’t all you want it to be. I spent years in another horse sport that wasn’t a good match for me. I did enjoy it, but I never really loved it. My suggestion is to find your most guilty pleasure and enjoy every bit of it; I know that I’ve found mine.
So, do what you love and love what you do, (at least most of the time) and try not to have too many “Should Haves” or “Should Not Haves,” whether your 50, 30, or 21.
Until next time,
Allyson Hicks and No Fun Being Good
