We've had multiple questions from cutting and cow horse owners facing similar problems with colts being fractious and mentally 'lost' during herd work sessions. Having addressed each problem specifically, we wanted to step back and expand on the overall mindset angle: How to approach these issues and go about correcting a horse that's fallen into such reactive habits. In this Xtra we stress the importance of challenging your horse to mentally engage and commit to his job; in your warmup sessions, on a day-to-day training level, and as part of a long-term development strategy to cultivate habits of 'mental softness' and respect in young horses.