Do you feel like accepting yourself means giving up on your goals? It’s a common misconception that self-acceptance and self-improvement can’t coexist. But here’s the truth: accepting yourself as you are right now is the foundation for becoming the person you want to be. For years, I believed self-acceptance meant settling for less. I thought it was an excuse for failure or a way to justify not trying harder. But I’ve learned that it’s actually the opposite. Self-acceptance unlocks the door to growth, progress, and success.

Parenting teens can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, especially as they begin to separate and form their own identities. Interestingly, nature offers us a powerful parallel through the process of weaning in wild horses. I have observed mares fiercely protect, discipline, and eventually let go of their foals as they become full-grown. Here are some lessons from horses that can help your parenting journey.

It’s human nature to avoid pain and seek pleasure. Our brains are wired to chase what feels good. For teens, this instinct can quickly turn into unhealthy habits like drinking, using drugs, or other harmful behaviors. Why? Because feeling good in the moment can seem like the easiest way to escape the discomfort of life’s challenges.

If you’ve ever felt confused about judging others or making judgments, you’re not alone. Today, I’ll break it down so you can clearly understand what to judge, what not to judge, and how to make sense of the biblical principle of "judge not."

I’ve been working with horses and people for a long time, and one thing I’ve noticed—both in my own journey and in most horse owners—is a cycle.

Just like horses, humans thrive on connection. Without it, both species can experience emotional and physical distress.