In the competitive world of trading, the belief that only the innately talented can achieve significant success is widespread. However, through my own personal trading journey, and the work I have done coaching and mentoring traders (to consistent profitability) suggests otherwise. Talent, while beneficial, is not the cornerstone of trading success. Here is what it really takes to become a consistently profitable trader.
Prioritizing Process Over Profits for Long-Term Trading Success
Most brand new traders are initially drawn to day trading by the allure of profits and the lifestyle that can come with it. Yet, the irony lies in fixating too much on these external rewards. Similar to an athlete cracking under pressure, excessive focus on the profits often leads to a myriad of mistakes.
3 Pillars of Trading Success
Trading is a journey of mastery, viewed through the multifaceted prism of three overlapping lenses. These lenses are the Technical Lens, the Performance Lens, and the Self Lens. To achieve true mastery in trading, one must skillfully balance and synchronize these three lenses. Let's delve into each of them.
The Trader's Journey: Keeping Expectations In Check
Trading success is often measured by the size of one's gains and the ability to consistently turn a profit. After all, as traders we have a giant daily “scoreboard” telling us how well we are doing (in the form of our daily PnL). Yet, for many traders, these aspirations can become a double-edged sword, leading to unrealistic expectations and, ultimately, disappointment.