Overcoming Fear in Bull Riding (and Life)
Fear is the biggest opponent you’ll ever face in bull riding—and in life. As a professional bull rider, I remember moments when fear nearly paralyzed me before I even nodded my head. My throat would tighten, my mind would race, and instead of riding to win, I rode to survive. Those were the rides where I walked away defeated.
The truth is simple: besides laziness, fear is your greatest enemy. It can keep you from committing to the ride, cloud your technique, and even put you in danger. But here’s the good news—you can learn to overcome fear.
In this article, I’ll share practical bull riding tips and mindset strategies to help you gain confidence, stay safe, and perform at your best.
What Is Fear?
Fear is “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous.” In other words, fear is faith in the negative. It tricks you into focusing on what might go wrong, instead of what can go right.
Yes, bull riding is dangerous. But perspective makes all the difference.
A high school rider with 15 rides under his belt sees a top-ranked bull as a life-or-death threat.
A seasoned pro who’s been on 2,000 bulls sees the same animal as a 21-point opportunity to win.
The situation doesn’t change—only the perspective does.
Change Your Perspective
If fear is perspective, then perspective can change. Start by paying attention to your self-talk:
“I could get hurt” → Replace with: “I’ve trained for this.”
“I can’t do this” → Replace with: “I will ride my bull with confidence and my best effort.”
Remember: Fear = False Evidence Appearing Real. Stop rehearsing worst-case scenarios and start focusing on success.
Faith Is the Opposite of Fear
Faith is belief in the good. To overcome fear, you need faith in two areas:
Faith in Yourself
Train hard and consistently.
Build muscle memory through drills and practice.
Attend bull riding clinics to sharpen technique and confidence.
Faith in God
Strengthen your spiritual foundation through prayer, scripture, and fellowship.
Draw strength from knowing your life has purpose beyond a single ride.
Faith shifts your mindset from fear of failure to expectation of victory.
Find Your Purpose
Bull riding is dangerous—there’s no denying it. So why ride? Your “why” matters more than your “what.”
If your purpose is weak, fear will win.
If your purpose is strong, it will push you past fear and toward greatness.
For me, my purpose has always been about helping people, inspiring them, and honoring God. Bull riding was a platform to live that purpose—and now coaching is, too.
What’s your purpose? Find it, and fear will lose its grip.
Persevere Through Challenges
Fear doesn’t disappear overnight. You’ll face setbacks, injuries, and discouragement. But perseverance builds resilience.
Remember why you started.
Lean on your purpose when things get tough.
Refuse to quit, no matter what.
Persistence is what separates average riders from champions.
5 Steps to Overcome Fear in Bull Riding (and Life)
Focus on the positive, not the negative.
Build confidence through bull riding training.
Strengthen your faith in God.
Define your purpose clearly.
Persevere through challenges and setbacks.
Final Thoughts
Overcoming fear starts long before you climb onto the back of a bull. It begins in your mind—with faith, perspective, and purpose. When you learn to ride with confidence instead of fear, you won’t just become a better bull rider—you’ll become a stronger person in life.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Learn to Bull Ride Online – Get access to my full bull riding training program.
Join a Bull Riding Clinic – Train in person with professional coaching.
Read More Bull Riding Tips – Explore our blog for more advice on riding, safety, and mindset.
Be a champion—don’t let fear dominate you.
