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with Sean Sawyer, MS

Session: #063 | The Discipline of Values-Driven Action

December 2, 2024

Key Points:

  1. Discipline thrives on aligning actions with core values rather than brute willpower.
  2. Sustained trading success depends on purpose and self-awareness rather than perfection.
  3. Grounding techniques and perspective shifts foster resilience and regulate emotions.

Session Summary:

Sean dives into the nuanced relationship between discipline and values-driven action in this structured session. Starting with the distinction between “discipline” as self-regulation and “a discipline” as a focused field of study, Sean argues that sustainable discipline arises when one’s actions are deeply connected to personal values. Like any profession, trading demands more than sheer willpower—it requires a purpose to ground the countless decisions and emotions involved.

Sean challenges the traditional view of discipline as toughness, noting that willpower is often overemphasized. Instead, he highlights how awareness of personal values transforms discipline into a meaningful pursuit. “Discipline follows purpose,” Sean reminds the group, underscoring that values—not fleeting emotions—should guide behavior.

The discussion explores how the acute stress of trading can obscure long-term goals, making mindfulness and grounding crucial tools. Participants are encouraged to reflect on their “why” for trading, recognizing how values like providing for loved ones or personal growth can anchor decision-making. Sean also critiques the oversimplified approach of influencers like Jocko Willink and David Goggins, emphasizing that their “grit” often stems from deeply ingrained values, not superhuman willpower.

One memorable takeaway: “Sustainable trading is about consistency in values-driven behavior—not chasing perfection in every trade.”

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

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

  • Grounding exercises, such as stepping away from the screen or focusing on physical sensations, help traders regulate emotions and refocus on their purpose during high-stress moments.

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

  • Emphasizing the temporary nature of frustration or impatience, Sean demonstrated how mindfulness practices like cognitive defusion can shift focus from acute discomfort to long-term goals.

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

  • Sean encouraged traders to reflect daily on their values—whether family, autonomy, or growth—and let these guide their decisions, making discipline feel less like a chore and a natural extension of what matters most.

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

  • The ‘tough guy acceptance’ concept was reframed: true strength comes from embracing discomfort while staying anchored in values rather than resisting or suppressing it. This approach can be particularly beneficial in the high-stress trading environment.

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

  • By shifting focus from results to behavior, traders can recalibrate after setbacks, using mistakes as lessons rather than triggers for shame or overreaction.

Actionable Strategies

  • Zoom out post-trade: After each trade, physically step away from the screen to reset and gain perspective.
  • Daily values check-in: Start each trading session with a brief reflection on your core values to anchor your goals.
  • Embracing distress tolerance techniques can provide a sense of relief in navigating emotional spikes. By practicing grounding methods like urge surfing or mindful breathing, you can manage these spikes more effectively, reducing stress and enhancing your trading experience.
  • Set purpose-driven trade goals: Tie your trading strategy to broader life values to enhance sustainability.
  • Celebrating the process over the outcome can bring a sense of achievement. By executing your plan well, regardless of the immediate financial result, you can feel a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in your trading journey.

Act Accordingly

Trading discipline is less about forcing yourself to perform and more about building a lifestyle aligned with what truly matters to you. Sean’s session illuminated the importance of grounding actions in values to make discipline sustainable and meaningful. Whether stepping away from the screen to clear your head or reflecting on why you trade, the path to consistency lies in embracing your purpose. Let that clarity guide your next move.

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.