If you’ve ever found yourself wondering “Why am I even doing this?” when it comes to riding, this happens to a lot of equestrians. As riders, we all hit moments of doubt, dips in energy, or even the thought of walking away from the sport we love.
In today’s blog I want to share with you what I covered in a recent episode of The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast: Why riders quit, and how to build long-lasting motivation.
If you’ve been struggling with your confidence, feeling the pressure, or simply finding it hard to stay motivated, keep reading,this is for you.
Why Do Riders Quit?
It’s rarely just one reason. Motivation can slip away slowly, until quitting feels easier than pushing through. Some of the biggest reasons I see are:
Unrealistic expectations. Many riders expect progress to be smooth and linear, but horses aren’t machines, they’re living, breathing partners. Ups and downs are normal.
Comparison. Social media or watching others at the yard can create that sinking feeling of “not being good enough.”
Burnout. Riding takes time, money, energy, and emotional investment. Without joy, the pressure builds.
Fear. Fear of failure, judgement, or letting your horse down can make you hesitate.
If any of these connect with you, take comfort in knowing this that even the most successful riders have thought about quitting at some point. What matters is what you do next.
The Psychology of Motivation
Motivation isn’t something you “have” or “don’t have.” It’s more like energy, it fluctuates and needs to be replenished.
There are two main types:
Extrinsic motivation – driven by rewards like ribbons, results, or recognition.
Intrinsic motivation – driven by joy, connection, and personal growth.
It’s the intrinsic motivation that lasts. And one of the most powerful ways to strengthen it is by digging into what I call “the why behind your why.”
For example:
Surface-level why: “I want to compete at BE90.”
Deeper why: “Because I want to prove to myself that I can,” or “Because I love the thrill of cross-country.”
The deeper you go, the stronger your motivation becomes when times get tough.
Tools to Boost Rider Motivation
NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)
NLP helps us change the way we think, feel, and act. A few simple techniques you can use are:
Anchoring: Linking a positive memory (like your best ride) to a small action, such as pressing thumb and finger together, so you can call up that confidence when you need it.
Reframing: Viewing a refusal not as failure, but as feedback and information.
Visualisation: Seeing and feeling yourself ride confidently before you even enter the arena.
Hypnosis for Riders
Hypnosis is simply focused attention. It allows your unconscious mind to absorb positive suggestions and strengthen new habits.
For example, visualising yourself sitting tall, breathing calmly, and saying to yourself: “I believe in myself. I am capable. I am becoming the rider I want to be.”
These affirmations, repeated in a relaxed state, can powerfully reshape how you feel in the saddle.
Coaching for Lasting Change
Coaching adds structure, accountability, and support. With the right goals and someone to guide you, setbacks become stepping stones rather than roadblocks.
Practical Strategies for Everyday Riding Motivation
Here are some simple but effective steps you can take right now:
Break big goals into smaller, manageable steps.
Celebrate small wins, they add up.
Balance effort with joy: ride for fun, not just progress.
Surround yourself with positive support, friends, coaches, communities.
Track your progress with a journal or reflection notes.
Revisit your deeper why regularly.
Remember, consistency beats intensity.
My Personal Story
There was a time I nearly quit myself. After a run of tough rides, I felt drained and questioned if it was worth it. What kept me going wasn’t just goals or competition, it was the bond with my horse, the joy in small moments, and the support of those around me.
That’s why I want you to know this: I believe in you.
To Finish Off
Motivation will ebb and flow, but it doesn’t have to fade away. By reconnecting with your deeper why, using mindset tools like NLP and hypnosis, and surrounding yourself with support, you can create lasting motivation that carries you and your horse forward.
So next time you feel doubt creeping in, remember: you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to keep showing up.
Want more? Join The Neil Foster Rider Mindset Podcast Community on Facebook, where we share stories, support, and strategies for growing as riders together.
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