Here’s something wild: your brain is tricking you on purpose.

Yep, you read that right. And not because it’s broken or messed up—but because it’s doing its best to protect you.

In this episode, I share the story of a tiny bird with one of the strangest survival strategies in nature… and how that same pattern plays out in your brain every time you step into the show pen and feel your confidence disappear. If your nerves flare up and your focus gets hijacked—right when it matters most—this episode will shift the way you see it and give you tools to take your mental game back.

This one’s about way more than birds. It’s about understanding your stress patterns, rewiring your response to pressure, and becoming the kind of rider who can stay calm and connected no matter what.

If you or someone you know has benefited from this episode, be sure to tag me @nicoleburnettmentalcoach and @resilientreiner on Instagram and share this episode with your community! I’d love to hear what your version of the “broken wing moment” looks like—and how this episode helped you move through it. Also, don’t forget to leave a review on iTunes to help other riders find the show!

In This Episode You’ll Learn:

• What a killdeer is—and what the heck it has to do with your mental game as a rider
• How your brain creates “decoy drama” right before high-pressure moments
• The surprising truth about anxiety, overthinking, and second-guessing
• Why your brain thinks it’s protecting you (even when it’s getting in your way)
• A simple phrase that can flip your mindset instantly on show day
• Why most riders ignore their mental patterns—and how that keeps them stuck
• How to retrain your brain to stay grounded and focused, even when the pressure is high

Questions I Answer:

• Why do you always feel anxious or scattered before you compete—even when you’re prepared?
• How can you tell if what you're feeling is a real issue or just my brain freaking out?
• What’s the fastest way to ground yourself before a run?
• Is there a simple tool to help you stop spiraling when nerves hit hard?
• How do you actually train your brain to stay calm under pressure?

• 🎯 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!