Key Points:
- Focus on mindfulness to combat comparison and self-judgment.
- Use comparison data constructively rather than self-destructively.
- Align your mindfulness practice with your core values for a more significant impact.
In this midday mindfulness session, Sean addresses the common comparison issue among traders, emphasizing how it can harm one’s mental well-being. He guides the SPP community through mindfulness exercises designed to bring awareness to their comparison habits without judgment. The goal is to use this awareness to harness comparison positively, turning it into a source of inspiration rather than self-criticism.
Sean encourages participants to notice when they compare themselves to others, whether in trading performance, mindfulness practice, or other aspects of life. By observing these moments non-judgmentally, traders can better understand their motivations and the impact of their comparisons. He highlights the importance of aligning mindfulness practice with personal values to create a more meaningful and constructive approach to self-improvement.
“When you notice yourself comparing, ask if it serves your values and inspires you or if it’s just a way to beat yourself up.”
— Sean Sawyer
C.L.E.A.R. Mindset Connections
Connect to the present moment and enhance your self-awareness with practical techniques.
- Notice distractions and judgments during mindfulness practice to stay present and self-aware.
Loosen your attachment to thoughts and emotions, and cultivate mental clarity and resilience.
- Identify when comparison triggers negative emotions and work on loosening your attachment to these thoughts.
Embody your core values and align them with your actions to foster authenticity and purpose.
- Reflect on whether your comparisons align with your values and if they inspire you toward growth.
Accept all the present moment offers, whether wanted or not, and find peace and strength.
- Acknowledge comparisons without judgment and accept them as part of your current experience.
Respond with decisive, informed action, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.
- Use comparison data to inspire actionable steps toward personal and professional development.
In conclusion, Sean’s session focuses on using mindfulness to navigate the pitfalls of comparison in trading. By fostering awareness and aligning actions with core values, traders can transform potentially harmful comparisons into opportunities for growth and inspiration.