Welcome back to another episode of the Unstoppable Equestrian Video Blog — this is Video #71!
Welcome back, riders!
I’m Danielle Pooles from Dressage Plus, and in today’s video blog, I’m sharing how to set dressage competition goals that support your mindset and performance — without adding more stress on comp day.
This is a topic that comes up often in coaching sessions, especially during competition season. We all want something to aim for — but if we’re not careful, our goals can actually become a source of pressure instead of motivation.
Watch the video above for a full breakdown.
Why Dressage Competition Goals Matter
Setting clear goals gives your training direction and keeps you motivated. But when those goals are focused purely on results — like scores or placings — they can increase pressure and lead to disappointment.
Instead, I recommend setting process-based goals — ones that focus on what you can control. These are the kinds of dressage competition goals that will actually help you ride better and feel more confident.
Examples of Healthy Dressage Competition Goals
Here are a few goals that will boost your confidence and focus:
- Visualise your test every day for a week leading up to the comp
- Practise your breathing exercise throughout the day
- Stay present during your warm-up and correct your horse when needed
- Ride at least three quality transitions in warm-up like you do at home
- Maintain your focus and rhythm for the entire test — regardless of outcome
What to Avoid in Goal Setting
These types of goals are common, but often unhelpful:
- “I want to score over 65%”
- “I want to place in the top 3”
- “I want my horse to be relaxed and calm”
Why avoid these? Because you can’t control judging, other riders, conditions, or even how your horse behaves on the day. Focusing on these outcomes increases pressure — not performance.
Set Long-Term Goals, Then Let Them Go
It’s totally okay to aim for Nationals or work toward a qualifying score — but those are long-term goals. Once you’ve set them, shift your focus to daily habits and preparation that help you ride at your best.
The magic happens when you consistently work on your dressage competition goals that focus on process, not pressure.
Your Challenge This Week
Look ahead to your next competition and choose one or two goals that focus on how you’ll prepare or ride — not where you’ll place.
Whether it’s a visualisation habit, staying calm in your float, or riding a balanced warm-up, pick something you can control, track, and learn from.
Free Toolkit for Dressage Riders
Want more mindset tools like this to prepare with clarity and confidence?
Download your free Dressage Rider’s Competition Preparation Toolkit here.
External Tip for Further Reading
Want a step-by-step guide on how to set and achieve your dressage competition goals? Here’s a helpful article that I came across from Equestroom.
Coming Next
This is Video Blog #71 in the Unstoppable Equestrian series. You might also enjoy: