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Determination & Honesty in Trading

This is probably the single biggest factor which divides the winners from the losers, not just in trading, but in any other walk of life.  Yes, it pays to have money and time on your side, but you could have all the money and time in the world and still fail at trading if you do not have the drive to do well at it.  On the other hand, you could have a lack of resources, but have a greater chance of success because you have the drive to win.  That drive will help you preserver when the going gets tough.

A trader who can admit his mistakes to himself and also recognize his positive traits is one who is likely to succeed.  Honesty gives you clarity, and clarity allows you to make sound decisions which have a basis in reality.  If you do not know yourself and cannot be honest with yourself about your trading activities, you cannot see what is going on.  Imagine getting into a car blindfolded, turning the key, and driving out into rush hour traffic.  That is what trading is like if you are dishonest with yourself.  Another good metaphor would be driving drunk.  An inebriated driver has no idea whether or not he is even making mistakes, and does not hold himself accountable from his actions.  Stay sober and check your windows and mirrors when you trade.

Great Trading Wisdom from 2,400 years ago

If you are a trader, you will relate

When an archer is shooting for nothing . . . he has all his skill.

If he shoots for a brass buckle . . . he is already nervous.
If he shoots for a prize of gold . . . he goes blind;
or sees two targets . . . he is out of his mind!
His skill has not changed.  But the prize . . . divides him.  He cares.
He thinks more of winning than of shooting . . . 
and the need to win drains him of power.
            – Chuang Tzu, 400 B.C..
 
If you do not relate, then you are not likely a trader.
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