At the start of a new season, goal setting can feel exciting… and overwhelming.

In this episode, I and Lorna unpack how to set ambitious goals that guide your season, without letting them become a source of pressure, self-doubt, or fear of judgment.

Drawing from our own recent competitions, we explore why zero expectations can sometimes unlock peak performance, why many riders either play too small or aim unrealistically high, and how fear of judgment often stops us from speaking our goals out loud.

This episode dives into the balance between big vision and grounded action, showing you how to use goals as information and data, not as a measure of your worth. If you’ve ever struggled with goal pressure, moving goalposts, or feeling like you’re failing even when you’re progressing, this conversation will help you reset your approach.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

Why having no expectations can lead to better performances
How mindset can carry you through breaks in training or time off
The difference between goals that guide you and goals that control you
Why many riders are afraid to speak their goals out loud
How fear of judgment, failure, or success shapes goal setting
Why goals should be treated as data and information, not ego
How to tell the difference between stretching yourself and setting yourself up to fail
Why breaking big goals into short-term actions builds confidence
The danger of constantly moving the goalposts
How to be proud of progress before you reach the end goal
Why mistakes, setbacks, and “bad days” are still steps forward

Who This Episode Is For:

Riders setting goals for a new season
Anyone feeling pressure, fear, or resistance around goal setting
Riders who feel they’re never “doing enough” despite progress
Those struggling with comparison, judgment, or expectations
Riders who want to play bigger without burning out mentally

Resources Mentioned:

📲Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@EquestrianPerformanceMindset

🎁 YouTube Launch Competition: https://www.mindeq.eu/youtubelaunch

Follow Jocelin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Follow Lorna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lornahogarth_coaching/

How to Set Goals Without Letting Them Control You - #222