If you're an equestrian who sets horse riding goals but struggles to achieve them, you're not alone! It’s a common problem for many passionate horsewomen.
You might think that it's because of one of these reasons:
- not enough time,
- lack of confidence, or
- even fear of failure.
But when you look deeper, the root of the problem often lies in mindset. The good news? Shifting your mindset can help you finally achieve your riding dreams.
1. The Mindset Trap: Self-Doubt and Limiting Beliefs
Many horsewomen unknowingly sabotage their progress with self-doubt. Thoughts like “I’m not good enough for my horse” or “What if I make a mistake?” create mental barriers that can feel impossible to overcome. These beliefs are often reinforced by past experiences, like:
- a fall,
- a bad round at a show, or
- a negative comment from another rider, a family member, or even a coach
Solution: One way to reframe these limiting beliefs is through a technique called “anchoring.”
This involves creating a positive emotional state—such as confidence or calmness—and linking it to a physical action, like touching your reins or placing your hand on your thigh.
To do this, recall a time when you felt truly successful (in riding or another area of your life). Bring that memory vividly to mind and pair it with your chosen action. Repeat this regularly to strengthen the association.
2. Fear of Failure (Or Even Success)
Fear isn’t always about falling off or getting hurt. Sometimes, equestrians fear achieving their goals because it means going into unknown, unfamiliar territory.
Success can bring new challenges, like increased expectations or pressure to perform.
Mindset Shift: Instead of focusing on the “what ifs,” focus on the “what now.”
Visualise yourself achieving your goal and notice how it feels.
What’s one small step you can take today to move closer to that vision?
Breaking big goals into manageable actions reduces overwhelm and keeps you moving forward.
3. Perfectionism Paralysis
Many equestrians (especially horsewomen of a certain age) believe they have to ride perfectly to be successful. This mindset creates unhelpful, unnecessary stress and often leads to avoidance behaviours, like skipping rides when they don’t feel “ready.”
Solution: Use reframing to change how you view mistakes. Instead of seeing them as failures, reframe them as learning opportunities.
For example, if your horse spooks during a ride, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” or “How can I use this experience to prepare for next time?”
Shifting your perspective makes it easier to move past setbacks and stay consistent.
4. A Lack of Clarity
It’s hard to achieve a goal you haven’t clearly defined. Many riders set vague intentions like, “I want to improve my riding” without specifying what that actually looks like. Without a clear target, it’s easy to lose motivation.
Mindset Shift: Use the SMART goal framework: make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
For example, instead of saying, “I want to improve my canter transitions,” say, “I will practice canter transitions three times a week for the next month and track my progress by recording my rides.”
This approach gives you a roadmap and keeps you accountable.
5. Negative Inner Dialogue
Your self-talk matters! Constantly criticising your riding or comparing yourself to others can erode your confidence and steal your joy of riding.
Solution: Replace negative self-talk with affirmations. Start with simple phrases like, “I am capable of improving,” or “My horse and I are a team.”
Write these affirmations down and repeat them daily, especially before rides. Over time, this practice can shift your default thinking patterns to be more supportive.
Bonus Tip: If you don't believe the affirmation, make it a question by putting "what if" in front of it. e.g. "What if, I am capable of improving?" Your powerful mind will look for an answer!
6. Overcoming Anxiety Through Mindset Techniques
Riding anxiety can make even the thought of getting in the saddle feel overwhelming. Whether it’s fear of cantering, jumping, hacking, or competing, anxiety often keeps riders from reaching their goals.
Mindset Shift: Use visualisation to calm your nerves and build confidence.
Close your eyes and picture yourself riding successfully. Imagine every detail—the rhythm of your horse’s movement, the sound of their hooves, and your steady breathing.
Visualisation primes your brain for success and helps you approach rides with a calmer, more focused mindset.
7. Accountability and Support
Riding goals aren’t meant to be achieved alone. Lack of accountability often leads to inconsistency and stalled progress.
Mindset Shift: Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded horsewomen who understand your struggles.
Share your goals and celebrate wins together. Having a coach or mentor can also provide guidance and keep you motivated.
Final Thoughts
Achieving your horse riding goals is about more than just skill—it’s about mastering your mindset.
By releasing fears, reframing challenges, and creating a clear plan, you can transform your riding experience.
Remember, every step forward counts, no matter how small. You and your horse deserve to enjoy every ride and achieve your dreams together.
Want help setting and achieving your horse riding goals? Join my FREE WEBINAR - From Stuck To Success: 3 Steps To Achieve Your Riding Goals in 2025
