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The Importance of Off-the-Screen Goals

Ah, the end of the year!  A time for pigging out, hanging with relatives, and reflecting on the previous 12 months.

For some, it’s a rewarding time. Looking back on achievements and areas of growth brings some satisfaction and motivation for the year to come.  But for others, disappointment and disgust dominate their thoughts as they wonder how they could have set such lofty expectations just 1 year ago.off-screen-goals [1]

Goals can be great.  They can drive us to achieve more, reach higher, and to get clear on what it is we really want.

But goals can also hinder us when we find ourselves in a rut.  They can be a psychological burden, annoying us – no, pressuring us when we stop to think how far away from them we are.  In those times, we need no additional motivation – our own frustration is plenty.  And in the trading realm, there are times when that is definitely the case.

I’ve realized over time something of great value:  I really need off-the-screen goals.

The reason why is so that trading isn’t everything.  I don’t want it to be everything.  I do love it, but it isn’t my life.

When trading is going well, it’s great.  But when it isn’t, I’ve found that mentally I get a huge boost to be achieving in other areas of my life.  It’s just part of my personality that I need to be achieving somewhere in my life, so if I rely solely on trading to provide that, I’m setting myself up for some disappointment during those challenging stretches.  I don’t want that – life is too short!

Let me encourage you to first make the time to set some goals for 2010, but furthermore, to include some off-the-screen goals to strive for.  Maybe they pertain to relationships, health, travel or a hobby.  What matters is that you’ll have them, because trading isn’t always fun – at times you’ll need those diversions away from the screens.

Remember, trading isn’t everything, so don’t treat it like it is.  Give it your very best day in and day out, and be passionate about it, but don’t let it dictate your happiness.  Bring some balance into your life, and it’ll help your trading in 2010.

Trade Like a Bandit!

Jeff White

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