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Mindful Trading Live: Session Summary

August 3, 2024

Anchoring to the Present and Reflecting on the Past

with Sean Sawyer, MS

Key Points:

  1. The session focuses on practicing mindfulness by revisiting memories from various life stages.
  2. Emphasis is placed on self-compassion and the continuous nature of mindfulness practice.
  3. The importance of the observing self in trading and personal decision-making is highlighted.

Full Audio Session

In this session, Sean Sawyer leads the SPP community through a mindfulness exercise that encourages participants to revisit memories from their past, including grade school, high school, first job, and early trading experiences. Sean emphasizes the importance of practicing mindfulness with self-compassion, reminding traders that it is a continuous practice rather than a skill to be perfected. The exercise begins with a focus on breath awareness, encouraging participants to notice the subtle differences in temperature between the air they inhale and exhale.

Sean then guides them through memory explorations, asking them to reflect on each memory’s sensory details and emotional significance. This process helps traders connect with their inner observer, the part of themselves that has been present throughout their lives, providing a continuous stream of awareness and data.

“The part of you that observes your experiences has been there all along, and it can provide valuable insights into your trading decisions and alignment with your values.” – Sean Sayer

C.L.E.A.R. Mindset Connections:

Connect to the present moment and enhance your self-awareness with practical techniques.

  • Focus on breath: Participants practiced noticing the temperature difference in their breaths, anchoring themselves in the present.

Loosen your attachment to thoughts and emotions, and cultivate mental clarity and resilience.

  • Gentle reminders: Sean emphasized that distractions during mindfulness are normal, encouraging participants to bring their attention back without judgment.

Embody your core values and align them with your actions to foster authenticity and purpose.

  • Reflect on memories: Participants explored how past events shaped their values and current behavior by recalling significant life experiences.

Accept all the present moment offers, whether wanted or not, and find peace and strength.

  • Mindful acceptance: Participants were guided to accept their memories and current thoughts without judgment, fostering a sense of peace.

Respond with decisive, informed action, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

  • Observation and action: Sean highlighted the importance of observing oneself to make informed trading decisions and turn data into actionable insights.

In conclusion, this session underscores the importance of observing oneself in mindfulness practice and trading. By connecting with this part of themselves, traders can enhance their self-awareness, align their actions with their values, and make more informed decisions. Sean’s guidance helps traders understand that mindfulness is a continuous practice that offers valuable insights into their behavior and decision-making processes.

Sean Sawyer, MS

Psychotherapist | Performance Coach

Sean Sawyer, a psychotherapist since 2003 and full-time trader since 2017. Sean uniquely blends psychology and trading, offering insights from both worlds. His experience in psychological trauma and performance psychology helps individuals master decision-making and resilience in high-pressure situations.