Okay, I’m gonna say something that might ruffle some reins—but hear me out. What if your horse isn’t being stubborn? What if they’re not being disrespectful, lazy, or out to ruin your ride?

What if… they’re actually trying to communicate with you—and you’ve just been missing it?

In this episode, we’re flipping the script on one of the most frustrating experiences as a rider: when your horse just won’t do the thing. You know what I’m talking about—when they hesitate at the gate, throw their shoulder out, or flat out ignore your cues. Instead of chalking it up to disobedience, we’re digging into what’s actually going on beneath the surface—for both you and your horse.

This one’s a mix of tough love, neuroscience, and good old-fashioned cowgirl curiosity. So pull up a seat, or tighten your cinch—we’re going there today.

Welcome to Day 1 of this powerful (and yeah, maybe slightly uncomfortable) training series: How to Get Your Horse to Actually Listen to You.

Each day this week, you’ll get a short, practical episode that blends mindset work, neuroscience, and in-the-saddle strategy—because what’s going on in your brain directly impacts what’s happening under your seat.

Today’s Topic: Day 1: Ugh! You Just Don’t GET IT!! Why Understanding Your Horse’s Perspective Changes Everything (Plus The Mindset Shift That Leads to Long-Term Success).

Don’t forget to 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!

If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode, be sure to tag us @nicoleburnettmentalcoach, @resilientreiner on Instagram and share this episode with your community! I am so curious to hear about your experience and aha moments. Also, please leave a review on iTunes to help other riders discover the show and build their own unshakable confidence in the saddle.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why “bad behavior” in your horse might actually be a sign they’re unsure or overwhelmed
• How your energy, emotions, and mental state directly influence your horse’s reactions
• The mindset shift that turns frustrating rides into powerful communication moments
• Why taking resistance personally kills progress (and what to do instead)
• How to read your horse with more empathy—and ride with more leadership

Questions I Answer:

• What’s really going on when my horse doesn’t listen to me?
• How can I tell the difference between disobedience and communication?
• How do my own thoughts and emotions impact my horse’s performance?
• What mental shifts can I make to become a more effective rider and partner?
• Is it possible to fix “behavior issues” without drilling more? (Spoiler: yes!)

• 🎯 5 Days to Confident Competitor. Stop ‘show nerves’ and saddle up with swagger! https://nicoleburnettcoaching.thrivecart.com/5-days-to-confident-competitor/ 
• 🎯 Resilient Reiner Academy → The confidence to win so you ride like you belong. Sign up here!  https://www.nicoleburnettcoaching.com/resilientreineracademy 
• 🎯 Mental Gym for Equestrians → Ride like a pro https://mentalgymforequestrians.com/ 
• 🎯 Get Free Weekly Mental Coaching Tips → Join my email list! Subscribe here

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