#154 It’s NOT A Skill Issue

What if the reason you’re not winning isn’t your riding—but your mind?

I’m not talking about confidence in the usual way. I’m talking about the deep, hidden beliefs that make success feel unsafe—like stepping up will bring more pressure, more judgment, or more expectations than you’re ready for.

Riders think they need more training, more practice, more saddle time. But if your subconscious isn’t fully on board with success, no amount of extra effort with your horse will fix it.

In this episode, we’re digging into the mental blocks that hold horse riders back, why you can’t just “push through” them, and how to finally get your mindset working for you instead of against you.

If this episode hits home for you, I want to hear about it! Tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram and share this episode with your barn crew. Tell me—have you ever caught yourself hesitating, second-guessing, or holding back in competition or in training? Let’s talk about it. Also, leaving a review on iTunes helps more riders find this podcast, so if this episode resonated with you, please take a second to share your thoughts!

~Nicole~

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• The hidden fears that cause horse riders to hold back—without even realizing it
• How your nervous system keeps you safe by keeping you stuck
• The subconscious beliefs that make winning feel unsafe, overwhelming, or “undeserved”
• Why pushing harder isn’t the answer—and what actually works
• How to rewire your mindset for confidence, ease, and next-level performance in the saddle

Questions I Answer:

• Why do you freeze up or second-guess yourself when it matters most?
• Could your fear of success be stronger than your fear of failure?
• How do you stop making things harder than they need to be?
• Why do you feel guilty about winning or getting ahead?
• How can you break the cycle of overthinking and just ride?

📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

Enjoying the podcast? If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a review on iTunes—it helps more horse riders find the mental strategies they need to ride with confidence and perform at their best. 🐴⭐ 

💬 What’s one moment with your horse that made all the hard work worth it?

📲 Tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram and let me know!

🚀 Ready For Your Own Mental Breakthrough? Here’s How:

• 🎯 Join the Mental Gym for Equestrians! → Align your subconscious mind and nervous system with your biggest riding goals for better rides without more time in the saddle! Live high-touch group coaching. Limited Spots. Starting April 1st. Sign up here!
• 🎯 Resilient Reiner Academy → The confidence to win so you ride like you belong. Sign up here! 
• 🎯 Get Free Weekly Mental Coaching Tips → Join my email list! Subscribe here

🎧 Now, hit play & let’s celebrate these incredible wins together!