Key Points:
- Recognize the impact of recent losses on your outlook and trading decisions.
- Understand and manage existential concerns such as loss of choices and sense of control.
- Incorporate grounding techniques and the four-step process for emotional regulation.
In this insightful session, Sean dives into the intricate emotional landscape of trading, especially on volatile days. He begins by addressing the existential impact of recent financial losses, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of how these losses affect one’s outlook and decisions. Sean also explores the broader existential concerns, such as loss of choices and agency, that can arise from financial strain and personal life changes.
He underscores the necessity of connecting with core values and understanding their influence on trading behavior. Sean highlights the importance of aligning trading decisions with these values by listing key values like family, intimate relationships, and education. The session also delves into practical techniques for emotional regulation, including grounding exercises and the use of the four-step process to maintain a clear and focused mindset.
“Our work here is about making risk management personal and tailored to you—not following the outdated advice of some author from 20 years ago,” Sean passionately explains, urging traders to own their unique approach to the market.
C.L.E.A.R. Mindset Connections:
Connect to the present moment and enhance your self-awareness with practical techniques.
- Grounding techniques: After a trading mishap, Sean rubs his feet on the rug and practices square breathing to stay present and focused.
Loosen your attachment to thoughts and emotions, and cultivate mental clarity and resilience.
- Addressing emotional responses: Sean identifies and manages feelings of disappointment and disgust following an accidental trade loss, aiming to diffuse the urge to “get back” lost money.
Embody your core values and align them with your actions to foster authenticity and purpose.
- Values at play: Sean highlights how family and intimate relationships influence his trading decisions, ensuring his actions align with these core values.
Accept all the present moment offers, whether wanted or not, and find peace and strength.
- Acceptance of mistakes: Sean acknowledges a trading error, focusing on what he can control and maintaining resilience rather than dwelling on the loss.
Respond with decisive, informed action, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.
- Practical adjustments: By reviewing his trading setup and addressing potential hotkey issues, Sean takes proactive steps to prevent future mistakes.
In conclusion, this session powerfully reminds us of the importance of emotional regulation and value alignment in trading. By incorporating grounding techniques and a structured process, traders can navigate the volatile market with clarity and resilience, turning challenges into growth opportunities.