When Your Inner Game Sabotages Your Equestrian Goals

Today, we’re tackling a topic that many of us can relate to: navigating the inner challenges that arise when we say yes to a goal but then find ourselves grappling with doubt, fear, and self criticism.

Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting your equestrian journey, these inner hurdles can feel like insurmountable obstacles. But fear not, because we’re here to guide you through.

Understanding the Inner Game

When we say yes to a goal, a dream, or a new endeavor, it’s like stepping into the show ring with confidence and determination. We envision ourselves embodying success and achievement.

However, as soon as we take that step, the inner dialogue begins. Doubt creeps in, whispering tales of past failures, pointing out potential pitfalls and highlighting our perceived limitations.

This inner game is where the real battle takes place. It’s not just about honing your riding skills or perfecting your technique; it’s about mastering your mindset and cultivating self compassion.

When Your Inner Game Sabotages Your Equestrian Goals

Releasing What Doesn’t Resonate

As we journey towards our equestrian goals, it’s essential to understand that saying yes to a new vision also means saying yes to change within ourselves.

Everything that is not resonant with that choice is going to surface, seeking release.

It’s like shedding layers to reveal the true equestrian within us, the one capable of achieving our dreams and embodying success.

This process of transformation requires us to become a different person. A person who is in alignment with our goals.

It means letting go of old habits, beliefs, and fears that no longer serve us. These are the very things that hold us back, keeping us stuck in cycles of self doubt and limitation.

While this can feel daunting and even scary at times, it’s a necessary step towards growth and fulfillment. If we commit to our goals and keep moving forward, the process becomes easier, and we step into our authentic power as riders and individuals.

Exercise:

Take a few moments to reflect on a recent setback or challenge you’ve faced in your riding journey.

What did you say to yourself during that setback or challenge? Ex: I’m a horrible rider, I suck, I shouldn’t be showing, My horse deserves a better rider.

Feel the feelings that this brings up. Don’t try to talk yourself out of the feelings. Feel them. Don’t add any “story” onto your feelings. Ex: Because I’m a horrible rider, now…

Breathe and keep feeling the feelings until there are no longer emotions coming up.

The key here is to feel the feelings.  Burying the feelings or trying to talk yourself out of them doesn’t work.  Acknowledging them and feeling them is the only way through them.

In Closing

Navigating your inner game is a journey of self discovery and growth. By acknowledging and releasing what no longer resonates with our goals, we create space for our true potential to shine through.

Embracing this process, although challenging, is essential for stepping into our authentic power as riders. It’s about more than just improving our riding; it’s about living in alignment with our goals and fostering a mindset of self compassion and resilience.

As you continue on your equestrian journey, remember that each setback is an opportunity for growth. Stay committed to your goals, be gentle with yourself, and trust in the process of transformation.

Follow me on Instagram for equestrian success tips @vickibealecoaching and feel free to reach out with any questions or comments.