You’ve trained all winter.

You’ve put in the hours.

You feel ready at home.

So why does everything feel different at your first competition of the season?

In this episode, we unpack what really happens in the build-up to your first event, whether you’re an eventer, showjumper, or dressage rider stepping back into the outdoor arena.

Because here’s the truth:

Effort and results are not directly linked.

And when expectations rise, pressure follows.

We talk about:

Why the word “season” creates hidden pressure
How expectations silently increase tension (in you and your horse)
Why your brain treats competition as a threat
The difference between outcome-based thinking and process-based riding
How to shift from “test mode” to “experiment mode”
Why measuring emotion ruins reflection
How to reflect using data, not feelings
The power of intention over expectation
Why staying present is your biggest competitive advantage

If you’ve ever:

Felt sick before your first show of the year
Questioned why winter training “didn’t work”
Got stuck replaying a dressage score before showjumping
Felt like you had something to prove…

This episode will completely shift how you approach competition season.

Your first competition of the season isn’t a test of your worth. It’s information.

Resources Mentioned

✉️ Email us your mindset questions: info@mindeq.eu

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

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

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

Preparing For The First competition of The Season - #227