Nervous While Riding (Kind of Long!)

[HappyHorse13]

Hello everyone!
Can anyone give me some advice? I am nervous while I ride. I'm always thinking that the horse will spook, buck, or do something---when the horse is calmy walking, without the slightest hint of wanting to do any of those things. I feel so dumb when I ride because I'm nervous.
My nervousness started after the lesson horse I rode was sold. She was such a good girl! I was learning a lot from her, and she taught me how to ride a canter. I loved her so much, and then the one Thursday I went to lessons and I couldn't ride her because her new owner was coming to pick her up :( .
So now I'm nervous because I got to attached to Josie and I can't seem to let her go. I'm not even giving myself a chance to let the new horse I ride shine through because I keep thinking, "Well, she's not Josie." I'm expecting every horse I ride to be like Josie and that's wrong, because every horse is diffrent.
Can someone give me advice about how to tame my nervousness??? Thank-you!!! (Sorry the post is so long! I'm used to writing looooong essays for school!)

[Manda]

First, let me begin saying, I do know how you feel. I had a horse that fell down (like completely) with me on his back, and I was terrified to ride him after that, but I did. Trust me, it is difficult. I no longer have that horse, but I was always tense when riding him.

Like you said, no horse is the same. Take it slow with the new horse and atleast give it a chance, I think you'll be surprised. For a while just walk while riding, or walk/trot. Nothing too extreme. Spend time with the horse and get to know it, give it treats. I think you'll bond with your new lesson horse.

I now ride a different pony and I am very confident in my riding, even after being apprehensive at first. Just give it time, and you'll build your confidence back up again. =D

If you need someone to talk to or anything, I'm here. Send me a PM or something.

[HappyHorse13]

Thanks, Manda!!! The horse I ride now is very nice. Thank-you agian for your advice.