Setting accurate goals in the rodeo arena can be difficult, but mental performance coach Donene Taylor is a prime example that resilience in the rodeo arena isn’t an innate skill—it’s honed through setting goals and maintaining ambition through trials.
Taylor shared a simple yet powerful framework to not only set bold goals but also navigate the challenges that arise along the way. By clarifying vision, breaking it into actionable steps, and embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth, bold goals can turn into achievable triumphs.
“I truly believe mental toughness and self-belief are skills that can be learned, just like roping or riding,” Taylor said. “Achieving a goal that big isn’t about what you accomplish in the arena. It’s about who you become in the process.”
1. Define a Clear, Purposeful Goal
Taylor emphasizes that every bold goal starts with clarity and intention. She says, “Your goal needs to scare you a little but excite you a lot.”
Bold goals require you to step out of your comfort zone and connect with your deeper purpose. To troubleshoot potential discouragement, Taylor suggests writing down why the goal matters and revisiting it often to reignite your motivation.
“If you don’t have a clear vision of where you want to go, it’s hard to keep yourself on track when the challenges come,” Taylor said.
Bonus tip with the WCRA:
The WCRA allows for rodeo competitors to double-dip in their jackpots, amateur rodeos and ProRodeos using their nomination system. Think of the WCRA as a sidepot that’s just in the background—a floating association. They don’t require co-sanctioning with any associations, there’s no membership fees. But, they have major events that happen throughout the year, which are comparative bonus finals.
“The WCRA and their family of events is excellent for those with bold rodeo goals because in the Women’s Rodeo, they have the Challenger division meant for people who have just started,” Taylor said. “The Major events allow competitors to normalize big finals for themselves. They don’t show up any differently, and it creates a stronger, consistent mindset.”
Make the WCRA a part of your 2025 bold goals and learn how to nominate here.
2. Break It into Actionable Steps
Achieving bold goals isn’t about one giant leap; it’s about a series of small, deliberate actions.
“Chunk your big goal into smaller, manageable pieces so you can focus on one step at a time,” Taylor said. “It’s not about not being afraid; it’s about showing up and doing the work in spite of the fear.”
Troubleshooting here involves flexibility. When life throws curveballs, she encourages asking, “What’s one thing I can do today to move forward?” This mindset prevents overwhelm and keeps momentum alive.
3. Embrace Failure as Feedback
Taylor points out that setbacks are inevitable but invaluable.
“Failing isn’t the opposite of succeeding—it’s part of it,” Taylor said.
To troubleshoot failure, Taylor recommends adopting a growth mindset. Reflect on what didn’t work, adjust your approach, and try again. By reframing failure as a learning opportunity, you stay resilient and on course.
Creating bold goals requires vision, consistent action, and the courage to face challenges. As Taylor concludes, “Champions are made in the moments they choose to persevere.” With these steps, your boldest dreams are within reach.
Looking for more content with Donene Taylor? Listen to her newest podcast on The Breakdown here.
