Shifting Your Mindset

We’ve all been there, standing at the mounting block, gripping the reins, and bracing for something to go wrong. But what if we flipped the script? What if, instead of preparing for failure, we opened ourselves up to success?

The way we think about riding shapes our experience in the saddle. Fear keeps us stuck in worst-case scenarios, but courage invites us to consider: What if everything goes right?

The Power of a Positive "What If"

Your brain is wired to protect you. When you imagine falling, freezing up, or making a mistake, your body responds as if it’s happening in real time. But here’s the secret: your brain also responds to positive visualizations. If you picture yourself riding with ease, feeling the rhythm, and handling challenges with confidence, your body will start to believe in that reality.

Try this: Before your next ride, close your eyes and imagine it going exactly how you want. See yourself breathing deeply, feeling connected to your horse, and finishing with a smile.

Train Your Brain to Expect Success

We often rehearse failure without even realizing it. We replay past mistakes, dwell on fears, and assume the worst. But you can retrain your mind to expect success. Start small—catch yourself when you’re predicting disaster and replace that thought with a positive possibility.
Instead of: What if I lose control?
Try: What if I ride with confidence?
Instead of: What if my horse spooks?
Try: What if we stay calm and connected?

Live in the Moment

When we’re stuck in the “what ifs,” we miss out on what’s actually happening. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, be present with what is going right. Feel the warmth of the sun, listen to your horse’s breathing, and appreciate the simple joy of being in the saddle.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s choosing to ride anyway. So, what if today is the day it all goes right?

7 Day Confidence Challenge:

Boost your confidence in just 7 days, and it is free! 🐴 Get your daily journal prompt, affirmation, and action step—join the challenge now! March 17 - 23, 2025 (replays after those dates)




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Hey there! I’m Elise Hittinger—Fear Slayer, Confidence Creator, and your go-to Courage Coach.

 
Once upon a time, I was that fearless kid riding deep into Angeles National Forest without a second thought. Then bam—life threw me a plot twist. A horse flipped on me, pinning me beneath it, and fear crept in like an uninvited guest who wouldn’t leave.

That moment tested everything. But here’s the wild part—I walked away with only bruises and a divine reminder that I wasn’t done yet. Fear may have stolen my joy for a while, but it did not get the final say.

Fast forward to a move to Kentucky, where the trails were calling my name. I had two choices: let fear keep the reins or take them back. Spoiler alert—I took them back. Now, I help other riders (and, honestly, anyone sick of fear running their life) do the same.

I make fear pack its little bags and GTFO. Whether it’s through hypnotherapy, NLP, or a little well-placed humor, I help people trade anxiety for confidence, doubt for courage, and overthinking for action.

So, if you’re ready to kick fear to the curb and rediscover the joy you deserve—I’m here for it. Let’s do this.

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