Equestrian Performance Mindset

Finding the right trainer can feel overwhelming. Do you stick with the one you’ve got, or is it time to move on? Is there even such a thing as the perfect trainer? In this week’s episode, I and Lorna dive into one of the most common, and often tricky - questions riders ask: How do you know if a trainer is right for you? Together, we explore: Why “perfect” doesn’t exist (and why aiming for 80% is a much healthier goal). The importance of understanding your learning style and values when choosing a coach. How your stage in the riding journey influences the kind of trainer you need. When to give a trainer time, and when it’s okay to walk away. The role your mindset plays in getting value out of any lesson. Why a trainer with a growth mindset is absolute gold. Whether you’re feeling stuck, doubting your current setup, or just curious about how to make better choices in your training, this conversation will give you clarity and practical ways to reflect on what you really need.   Resources Mentioned:🐴 Mindeq Quiz: https://www.mindeq.eu/mindeq-quiz Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, I and Lorna welcome Noora from Dubai to share her powerful journey as a young rider. From her first pony rides to endurance racing, showjumping setbacks, and breaking her leg just as her confidence was growing, Noora’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. She opens up about the fears, doubts, and setbacks that nearly stopped her from pursuing her passion, and the mindset tools that helped her come back stronger. You’ll discover: How Noora went from falling off weekly to importing her dream horse Why breaking her leg became the turning point in realizing it was her mindset holding her back. The simple shifts that took her from fear and self-doubt to riding her first clear round in Nationals. Why redefining success changed everything in her riding. How her new mindset now impacts not only her riding, but also her studies, training, and everyday life. If you’ve ever thought “I’m not talented enough” or worried what others might think when you step into the arena, Noora’s journey will inspire you to see that it’s never just about talent, it’s about mindset.   Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: https://www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching Noora's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nk_equestrian1 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, I and Lorna dive into one of the most thought-provoking questions we’ve received: How can you feel proud of where you are, yet never truly feel “pleased”? Together, we explore the balance between confidence and growth, the seesaw of being proud of your progress while still striving for more. You’ll discover why “never pleased” doesn’t have to mean negative self-talk, and how to reframe it into a powerful drive that fuels your riding and your personal development. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why pride protects your confidence and reinforces your identity as a rider. How to turn mistakes into growth opportunities without beating yourself up. The difference between “never pleased” and “hungry for more.” Why words like but can sabotage your mindset, and the simple reframe that keeps you motivated. How to recognize signs of progress (they’re always there if you look for them). \ If you’ve ever struggled with feeling “never enough,” this conversation will help you shift your perspective, protect your confidence, and harness your hunger to keep growing.   Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: https://www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks🐴 Mindeq Quiz: https://www.mindeq.eu/mindeq-quiz Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Ever had one of those weeks where everything feels heavy? One thing goes wrong, then suddenly the whole week feels like a downward spiral. In this milestone, the 200th episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, I and Lorna open up about being stuck in a “funk”, those tough stretches where self-doubt, disappointment, or fatigue creep in and knock you off balance. This episode is raw, real, and relatable. Both as riders and coaches, we share personal experiences of feeling low after competition setbacks, unpack how these funks start, and most importantly, how to get out of them. You’ll learn: Why funks happen (and why they’re completely normal) How a small trigger can snowball into self-doubt across all areas of life The power of awareness: checking in with “HALT” (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) Why taking action; even the smallest step, is the fastest way out How to use journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or simply moving your body to reset your energy The importance of accepting all emotions (yes, it’s okay to cry!) How to flip the script and start creating evidence that you are capable, resilient, and moving forward This conversation is a reminder that funks don’t mean failure, they’re just part of the journey. Confidence isn’t gone, it’s just hiding, and you can find your way back. Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks💌 Email your questions: info@mindeq.eu Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, I and Lorna dive deep into one of our favourite topics: the growth mindset, and how to hold onto it when challenges threaten to knock you off track. From cross-country training breakthroughs to frustrating moments in the saddle, we share real-life riding experiences that reveal how easily old habits creep back in and how quickly self-criticism can take over. We unpack the crucial difference between a fixed and growth mindset, why criticism is not the same as feedback, and how reframing mistakes can transform your riding (and your life). You’ll learn: What a growth mindset really means for equestrians How to reflect without judgement, even after a rough ride Why the “ugly” videos are often the most valuable Practical strategies to shift perspective when emotions run high The one question that instantly reveals whether you’re in a fixed or growth mindset Whether you’re recovering from a disappointing competition, battling self-doubt, or just want to keep improving, this conversation will help you replace harsh self-talk with curiosity, see setbacks as stepping stones, and remember that nothing is permanent. Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks💌 Email your questions: info@mindeq.eu Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

What do you do when your biggest goal slips through your fingers? When something that should be easy just falls apart? In this raw and real episode, I share a personal story after a surprise elimination at a 2* event that derailed my path to the 7-year-old World Championships. Alongside Lorna, we unpack what it really means to reframe a “failure” and keep moving forward with clarity and confidence. In this episode, we talk about: The emotional rollercoaster of watching your goals slip away Why riding “a level down” doesn’t always mean an easy round How complacency and expectations can quietly sabotage performance The danger of letting your ego (or Instagram!) define your self-worth My powerful 3-step post-competition reflection process What to do when you see someone else succeed at your goal Why setbacks don’t mean you're not good enough, they just mean you're growing If you’ve ever: Felt blindsided by a disappointing competition Wondered if you should just stop setting goals altogether Struggled to bounce back when things don’t go to plan Compared your messy middle to someone else’s perfect highlight reel... … then this episode will meet you exactly where you are, and show you how to shift. Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks💌 Email the team: info@mindeq.eu Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Are you stuck between riding for growth and riding for results? Not sure when it’s the right time to push your performance without sacrificing your mindset? This episode is for YOU. This week, I and Lorna dive deep into one of the biggest mindset dilemmas riders face: 👉 When do you stop just focusing on the process and start showing up to be competitive, on purpose? Whether you’ve been playing it safe in the ring or struggling to get that last 10% out of yourself, this conversation will shift your thinking and ignite your inner competitor (without the toxic pressure). In this episode, we explore: How to tell when your mindset and skills are solid enough to start competing with purpose What the “Wall of Confidence” really is, and how to make sure yours doesn’t collapse under pressure Why performance plateaus often signal the need to increase the challenge, not ease off How to push your limits without focusing on the result The secret to getting into flow state more consistently Why a bigger canter (not a bigger fence!) could be your next breakthrough What to do when you're stuck in the “messy middle” of growth Resources Mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks🐎 Apply for coaching with us: mindeq.eu/coaching Follow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review! It helps so much and helps us spread the message to more riders like you.

Why is riding so freaking hard sometimes? Why do we keep showing up, even when it feels impossible, unfair, or downright soul-crushing? In this raw and real episode, I and Lorna had a heartfelt conversation on the mental toughness it takes to be an equestrian, and why the sport can feel so emotionally loaded compared to things like running or gym work. We explore why the dopamine hit feels delayed in riding, and how frustration often signals progress, if we can stick with it long enough. This episode is for you if you've ever walked away from a lesson wondering if you’re even cut out for this sport. If you've ever felt like a failure after not figuring something out, or wondered why it takes you so long to “get it” when everyone else seems to fly past with ease. We peel back the layers on the messy middle of learning, the internal battles we fight, and the truth about what’s on the other side of hard. What You'll Hear in This Episode: Why we get the dopamine rush from running, but not always from riding The difference between external results and internal understanding How expectations (yours or your trainer’s) can sabotage your confidence The hidden mental load of being an ambitious amateur rider What to do when your training feels stuck, pointless, or “off” Tools for reframing frustration so you don’t give up too soon The power of pressing pause, giving space, and trusting your learning process   Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Welcome back to another episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast, where we help ambitious riders make real strides in their mindset, so they can make real strides in the saddle. This week, I and Lorna dive into a deceptively simple yet deeply transformative topic: the power of your words; especially the ones you say to yourself. From self-talk during tough training sessions to the limiting beliefs quietly shaping your confidence, this episode is all about helping you build awareness around your internal dialogue, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and create new habits that support your goals. In this episode, You will learn: Why the words in your head matter more than you think A simple 4-part filter to challenge unhelpful thoughts: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it your reality? Do you need to obey it? How internal self-talk can either fuel progress or feed fear The importance of accepting hard days without making them mean you're a bad rider The difference between helpful honesty and toxic self-criticism Why mental training deserves the same attention as physical conditioning Using awareness and intention to shift from self-sabotage to self-support How to create your own “rules of self-talk” just like you would in a professional environment or a family culture Powerful metaphors like the “stage show” and “squeezing the last bit of toothpaste” to help you visualize mental resilience The reason most riders revert to old habits under pressure, and how to break that cycle Whether you're prepping for a competition, navigating a plateau, or simply trying to ride with more confidence and clarity, this episode will give you a mindset tune-up you didn't know you needed.   Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Do you ever feel physically ill before a competition, like you might actually throw up? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode, I and Lorna tackle one of the toughest emotional challenges riders face: pre-competition anxiety so intense it makes you sick. But here’s the thing; it doesn’t have to be that way. Together, we unpack what’s really happening in your mind and body when nerves take over, and most importantly, how you can take back control. You’ll learn: Why the sick feeling is more than just nerves, and what it's really telling you. How to identify the thought patterns behind your anxiety The simple mindset shift that can help you stop spiraling before you even start How to fact-check your fears with reality (and math!) Why our brains love stories, and how to write a better ending for yours This episode is both eye-opening and empowering, offering a fresh perspective that every ambitious equestrian needs to hear, especially if you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning your ability to keep pushing for your goals. You’ll walk away with: A deeper understanding of the mental loop behind show nerves Practical steps to challenge unhelpful thoughts A more resilient mindset that will serve you both in the saddle and in life 🎧 Whether you're headed to your next event or just trying to make sense of your own inner pressure, this episode is for you. Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, I share a personal journey of focus, intention, and what it really means to make progress. With my wedding and the competitive season for my eventing horse Echo in full swing, I made a bold decision: to intentionally let go of doing it all, and instead focus on doing fewer things really well. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why trying to “do it all” might be the real reason you’re stuck How to apply the 80/20 rule to your riding and your life The mindset shift from guilt to trust in your decisions How to prioritize your riding goals without burning out Practical steps to reframe success and avoid the hustle trap I also share candid thoughts about putting my showjumper Queenie on the back burner and what it’s taught me about growth, guilt, and grace. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to juggle horses, work, and life, this episode is your reminder that less can truly be more. .Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, I and Lorna share an intimate look at a truly special life event "Jocelin’s wedding", and the powerful mindset lessons it uncovered. After an unexpected break from the podcast, we discuss what it really means to be present, how disconnection from distractions can unlock richer experiences, and why creating moments that set your heart on fire is more important than ever, both in life and in riding. From the quiet beauty of a Swedish haven to the joyful chaos of Midsummer celebrations, this episode explores: The surprising parallels between riding mindset and real-life presence. Why your phone might be blocking your best experiences. The importance of training your attention, but also following your curiosity. Why daring to "do the crazy things" could be your biggest growth move. How to stop waiting for “one day” and start creating a meaningful life now. If you’ve ever felt caught in the rat race, disconnected during big moments, or unsure whether it’s okay to pause and fully enjoy the life you’re building, this episode is your reminder to stop, feel, and dare more boldly. Tune in for a beautiful blend of inspiration, vulnerability, and practical mindset insights that go beyond the saddle. Resources mentioned:  🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Welcome back to another powerful episode of the Equestrian Performance Mindset Podcast with I and  Lorna. In this raw and relatable conversation, We dive deep into what happens when competition doesn’t go as planned, and how to mentally regroup when your best efforts still fall short. Lorna shares her recent and emotionally intense experience at a dressage competition where things spiraled out of control, despite months of hard work and preparation. We unpack the rollercoaster of emotions, from frustration and self-doubt to shame and anger, that follow a disappointing performance. You’ll learn: Why mental toughness isn’t about “having it all together” but rather your ability to navigate discomfort. How to process disappointment without judgment and move forward with compassion. The power of reframing failure and reconnecting with your “why.” Why sitting with your emotions is not weakness, it’s part of growth. How community, connection, and vulnerability can help you feel less alone in the journey. Whether you’ve had a tough weekend or are questioning your path, this episode is for every rider who's ever walked out of the arena thinking, “What’s the point?” You'll leave feeling seen, supported, and equipped with tools to take one small step forward, even on the hardest days.   Resources mentioned: 🧠 5 Mental Tools: https://www.mindeq.eu/mentaltools Follow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review! It helps so much and helps us spread the message to more riders like you.    

This is not just another episode, this is a milestone moment. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of one of the most significant events in my riding career: my debut at 3* eventing with my 7-year-old horse, Echo vd Vrombautshoeve Z. What started as a distant dream becomes a breathtaking reality, and in this special documentary-style episode, you'll experience the week with me, from nervous packing to the elation of crossing the final finish line. You'll hear: Why I chose Maarsbergen for my first 3*, despite it being known as a huge and demanding track How I handled mindset wobbles, doubts, and the pressure of stepping up a level What it was like riding the bold and sassy Echo through dressage, show jumping, and cross-country The unexpected lessons I learned from two poles down in the SJ, and why it was exactly what I needed The emotional highs of going clear cross-country, and the deep appreciation for the community around me. We don’t have the perfect starting point, the perfect style, or the perfect horse. But we get the job done, and that’s what makes it so special. Whether you're dreaming of your first 3*, battling self-doubt, or needing a reminder that progress is possible no matter where you're starting from. this episode will hit you in the heart.💚 Real. Raw. Inspiring. Want to see the round? Check out my Instagram for behind-the-scenes footage and mindset insights. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this empowering episode, we dive into one of the most common fears holding ambitious riders back: the fear of not seeing a distance, and what it really means when you're scared to step up a level. Whether you're hovering at 1.10m and terrified of even thinking about 1.15m, or constantly waiting to feel "ready" before pushing yourself forward, this conversation is for you. We unpack: Why fear of failure (and not fear of injury) is usually what’s really holding you back The illusion of perfection, and how chasing it keeps you stuck What to do when fear is real (like after a fall), and how to work through it safely The mindset shift from “Ready, Aim, Fire” to “Fire, Aim, Ready” Why confidence is not a precondition to action, it’s a result of taking it 💬 Plus, we share our personal stories, mindset hacks, and a serious call to action: if this episode lights a fire under your saddle, let us know! We want to hear from YOU. If you're tired of feeling like you need to “see every stride” before you move up, if you're stuck in the loop of waiting until you feel confident, or if you're comparing yourself to a mythical perfect round, you need to listen to this episode. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

Ever found yourself halfway around a course and suddenly thinking, “Only five fences to go, just keep the time”, only to realize you’re more busy with the resume that with riding your horse? Yeah... same here. In this raw and real episode, I share exactly what happened at my last event when I got caught chasing the result instead of riding to the best of my ability. Spoiler: It got chaotic. I almost missed a fence, scrambled through a combination, and it could’ve haunted me for weeks. But it didn’t. Why? Because I reframed it. Today, I’m walking you through the mindset tool that saved me, and can do the same for you. Reframing isn’t about sugarcoating. It’s about choosing a story that serves your confidence, your learning, and your future as a rider. Inside this episode: Why focusing on the result sabotages your performance What I learned from almost riding past a jump The three reframes that turned a shaky round into the most valuable ride of the season A mindset technique you can use today to bounce back after a rough round Whether you’re prepping for your next step up, doubting if you’re ready, or just feeling the weight of perfectionism, this episode is your permission to be human, and your toolkit for becoming a better one in the saddle. Resources mentioned: 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau Remember: Reframing your thoughts is not about fluff. It’s about finding your power again.

Does your calm, rideable partner suddenly transform into an adrenaline-fueled beast the moment you trot up the centerline at a show? You're not alone! In this episode, Jocelin and Lorna unpack one of the most frustrating experiences riders face: when your horse becomes an entirely different animal at competitions; hotter, stronger, and seemingly tuned out from how they go at home. In this episode you’ll learn: How your own expectations could be quietly creating tension in the saddle. Why “riding the horse you have” (not the one from training) is more than a cliché, it's a survival strategy. What happens when you hold your breath… and how it might be unraveling your round. A powerful "hula hoop" mindset to stay focused on what you can actually control. How to redefine success at shows to fuel learning instead of feeding self-criticism. Ways to use visualization and embodiment that go beyond imagining a perfect test, into truly feeling how you'll ride it. Practical competition prep tips to streamline logistics and reduce stress. Resources mentioned: 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks To get the arena dressage rug with a 40% discount, Use this code (MINDEQ40) and the link to get it is: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1897347307/ Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In today’s episode, join Jocelin as she shines a light on the common fear of what people think and equips you with actionable steps to ride with more confidence and joy, regardless of who's watching. She tackles the silent struggle that holds many riders back: the fear of judgment. Whether it's during training sessions, competitions, or after making a mistake, this fear can sap your confidence and steal the joy from your riding. But it doesn't have to. Learn practical steps to recognize, challenge, and overcome this mental block so you can ride with freedom and self-assurance.   Resources mentioned: 🧠 sign up to receive our 5 favourite mental tools: https://www.mindeq.eu/mentaltools 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: https://www.mindeq.eu/coaching 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks Follow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau

In this podcast episode, Jocelin and Lorna tackles the common fear of failure that arises when riders take on horses who have competed at a higher level and how the pressure of a horse's past achievements can lead to self-doubt and anxiety about not measuring up. In this episode, we explore: Why the pressure of a horse's past achievements can trigger fear of failure. The importance of understanding your goals with this horse (learning vs. proving). Why comparing your progress to the horse's previous rider is unhelpful. How to treat an experienced horse as a new partnership, building The common fears underlying "fear of failure" (judgment, mistakes, etc.). Reframing the idea of "doing the horse justice" by focusing on its well-being. Letting go of external expectations and focusing on your own journey. Recognizing that your internal doubts often drive your external anxieties. Key takeaway from this episode: Focus on your individual journey and goals with your horse. Release the pressure of past achievements, embrace the learning process, and remember that your mindset is key to a successful partnership. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: www.mindeq.eu/coaching  Follow us on instagram: www.instagram.com/jocelinlillienau If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review! It helps so much and helps us spread the message to more riders like you.

This episode is all about documenting a huge milestone in our journey — our first qualification for the World Championships for 7-year-old event horses! I’m taking you behind the scenes of the ride that made it happen, the mindset that carried us through, and the lessons you can apply to your own goals and dreams. In this episode, I share: The story of our second 2*L and how we pulled off our best performance yet Why setting big goals but releasing expectations is the key to loving the journey How trusting the process (even through frustration) leads to the big moments The power of surrendering to what’s meant to be — and why the universe always has your back What it takes mentally to perform under real pressure The magic of the eventing community and how showing up for others fuels your own success How to borrow belief from the people around you when self-doubt creeps in If you take just one thing from this episode: You are capable of more than you think — and when you trust the process, celebrate the small steps, and surround yourself with the right energy, your dreams are closer than you realize. Resources mentioned: 🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks 🐎 Apply for coaching with us: mindeq.eu/coaching Follow Jocelin: Instagram: @jocelinlillienau If you loved this episode: Please leave a rating and review! It helps so much and helps us spread the message to more riders like you.