Perfectionism
To be a perfect trader or to trade perfectly, that is the question… and it is not an insignificant question.
A concept that many traders – who by definition are driven, ambitious and determined – are confronted with at some point in their careers, perfectionism, and its relentless pursuit, needs understanding if it is not to be a barrier to success. The financial markets are a living, breathing and constantly evolving manifestation of participant opinions, requirements, hopes, fears and desires. They are, as a result, imperfect in as much as their behaviour cannot be wholly explained or rationalised, even after the event (much to the chagrin of the financial media!). Their behaviour is certainly not consistent and trying to impose highly systemised approaches is fraught with difficulty. Those that seek to trade perfectly, and use their P&L results as their barometer of perfectionism, are on a very slippery slope which all too often leads competent individuals to a premature exit from the industry. So, what is the aspiring Proprietary Trader or Investor to do? For those amongst you that have a strong tendency to seek perfectionism in all that they do, don’t enter the industry! Now, that’s perhaps not the answer you may have been expecting but this is not a flippant suggestion. Whether to embark on this career is not solely a question of desire; it is also a question of whether trading suits you and your makeup, and that requires a long hard look in the mirror. However, for those that are prepared to understand and confront their inherent tendency to seek perfectionism, there is hope. To define perfectionism in terms of external factors, such as your trading results, is a mistake. The only enduring measure of perfectionism is something that is within and within your control i.e. YOU. You have the potential to be perfect in your approach to trading and life if your focus is on the process and not the result. Your ability to channel drive, ambition and determination into the daily pursuit of deeper trading and investing knowledge and skill is what should be your measure of satisfaction and ultimately peace of mind. This is the behaviour of the perfect trader.
Futex Investment & Trading Academy
“The Ultimate Futures Trading Education”
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