02/05/2026
I often ask myself: what would 8-year-old me be proud of?
That question has become a quiet compass in my decision-making. It cuts through overthinking and brings me back to what feels true. What I genuinely want and value, beneath all the noise.
And if 8-year old Laure-Anne would see me cantering across Iceland’s black lava beaches or crossing the Masai Mara alongside elephants, I know she wouldn’t even believe her own eyes.
As a child, I was always the one exploring a little further. Climbing rocks and caves while my family stayed on the beach. Swimming out to the furthest buoy. Jumping into unknown waters first. Walking ahead on Alpine hikes, despite my dad’s constant “stay in sight” reminders.
That curiosity never left. It just got slowly layered with expectations, conditioning, and “shoulds.”
Because it’s always easier to listen to limiting beliefs. Fear has a very convincing voice: it’s too dangerous, too advanced, too complicated, too alone. Especially when it comes to things like riding holidays, horseback safaris, solo travel, or stepping into the unknown. “It’s not safe.” “It’s only for experienced riders.” “You shouldn’t go alone.” “What if the welfare isn’t right?” “I should save money.”
But fear isn’t always truth. It’s just familiar thinking.
So the next time you feel that pull toward something new, and doubt starts speaking up, ask yourself: “What would my 8-year-old self do?” 🤍
Riding Holidays - African Horseback Safaris - Horseback Riding - Solo Travel - Equestrian
