In this episode, I and Lorna dive deep into one of the most crucial, yet often misunderstood parts of equestrian sport: how to prepare yourself and your riders for competition.

Whether you’re stepping up to your first event or pushing for that next level, this episode helps you discover your ideal performance state and understand how to manage nerves, pressure, and preparation so you can truly get the most out of yourself and your horse.

Through personal stories, mindset tools, and practical strategies, we unpack the messy middle of competing; the space between calm and chaos, between control and adrenaline, and how to find your own sweet spot.

Find your ideal performance level: Everyone’s energy “sweet spot” is different, learn to identify yours (and your horse’s) before you compete.

Reflect and adjust: Growth starts with reflection. Use every competition or training session as data for your next one.

Nerves are not the enemy: Nerves mean you care. Learn to use them to sharpen your focus rather than hold you back.

Plan ahead - in detail: Structure your day, from when you’ll eat to when you’ll tack up, warm up, and ride. Time is a mindset tool.

Build routines: Consistent pre-competition routines bring calm and confidence when it matters most.

Mistakes are information: Redefine failure, every error is feedback that helps shape your progress.

Support matters: Whether it’s a coach, friend, or mindset professional, no rider thrives alone.

“You can sell time, but you can’t buy time.” -  Abi Lyle
“Find your ideal energy level, your arousal state, and train for it before competition.”  - Lorna
“Everything you can make certain before competition saves you focus and energy.”  - Jocelin
“We grow when we learn, and we learn by making mistakes.” - Lorna

Resources Mentioned:
🐴 Our Website: https://www.mindeq.eu/

🧠 Receive our weekly mindset & performance hacks: https://www.mindeq.eu/weeklyhacks

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