Key Points:

1. Reflect on why you avoid essential self-checks during trading.
2. Understand the role of emotional defusion in preventing self-sabotage.
3. Recognize the importance of self-compassion in maintaining trading discipline.

Summary:

In this interactive session, the SPP community deeply discussed the challenges of maintaining emotional control during volatile market conditions. Sean emphasized the significance of regular self-checks, such as using the “FEELZ score,” to stay grounded and aligned with one’s trading values. One member shared a frustrating experience where technical issues led to a significant loss, highlighting the importance of being mentally prepared for unexpected setbacks.

Sean didn’t shy away from tough love, reminding the group that consistency in using psychological tools like the FEELZ score is crucial. He questioned why some traders neglect these tools, likening it to ignoring a boss’s instructions at a traditional job. “Why the hell aren’t you doing it if you’re not?” he asked, pushing members to reflect on their commitment to their values.

The conversation also delved into self-sabotage, particularly how traders might unconsciously punish themselves after a loss. One community member opened up about their tendency to stay in trades out of guilt, revealing the complex emotional landscape traders navigate daily. Sean stressed the importance of self-compassion, urging traders to see themselves as human beings deserving of forgiveness, not just profit-chasing machines.

“The function of our behavior is always what you want to be looking at—why are you lying to yourself about how you feel?” – Sean Sawyer

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

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

• Ground yourself using the field score to ensure you’re mentally prepared before trading.

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

• Defuse guilt after a loss by recognizing it and practicing self-compassion.

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

• Revisit your values regularly, especially after a tough trading day, to stay aligned.

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

• Sit with discomfort instead of rushing to correct it through impulsive trades.

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

• Pause before acting to ensure your decisions align with your short-term and long-term goals.

Actionable Strategies:

• Perform a field check-in before each trading session to gauge emotional readiness.
• Develop a self-compassion practice to counteract the urge to punish yourself after losses.
• Use BF Skinner alarms for field check-ins and to reassess your overall trading strategy throughout the day.

Act Accordingly:

Emotional control isn’t just a skill but a discipline requiring constant attention. By being honest about your emotional state and committed to using the tools at your disposal, you can transform emotional volatility into an opportunity for growth. Embrace the discomfort, practice self-compassion, and keep your values front and center.