Jump to content

Welcome to the new Traders Laboratory! Please bear with us as we finish the migration over the next few days. If you find any issues, want to leave feedback, get in touch with us, or offer suggestions please post to the Support forum here.

  • Welcome Guests

    Welcome. You are currently viewing the forum as a guest which does not give you access to all the great features at Traders Laboratory such as interacting with members, access to all forums, downloading attachments, and eligibility to win free giveaways. Registration is fast, simple and absolutely free. Create a FREE Traders Laboratory account here.

upullit4

The Learning Curve

Recommended Posts

This post is something that i have been realizing the past few weeks.

Ive been trading ES now for 10 weeks when i first started everything was foreign to me. I didn't even know what a DOM was lol. So needless to say i am a newbie.

Going through this learning curve has taught me more in the past 10 weeks then i learned in the past year since i put my very first trade on. Above and beyond everything that i have learned (and still learning) like understanding momentum, whether we are trending or ranging, Knowing when to switch strategies, multiple time frame analysis, retraces, trading around levels, developing your market feel, and the newbies worst nightmare "The dreaded chop" (i can go on and on). I am understanding that dealing with your emotions is the most difficult of all parts of trading to me. Someone mentioned one time that trading is a combination of things coming together im sure that this is one of the factors. When you are stalking a trade you always second guess yourself whether it is a good set up or not. And when you pull the trigger you are wondering if i made the correct chose. And when the trade goes for you then comes back to B.E. should you hold it or take the break even (I've learned a good lesson about standing behind your position). And how about when you take a few ticks of heat and it comes to BE and you take it. then it just goes your way any way (that sucks). Or here is a good one you only hold for 2 points for it to just keep going for 4 or 5 or10 points without you (I'm getting better at that). I'm beginning to think that the psychological side of trading is the most important part of, the actual trading its self is easy. I read a part in DR. Tharps' book "trade your way to financial freedom" he says (this is out of context but he is talking about developing a system that's right for you and he was referring to short term traders) "Most importantly the psychological pressure could destroy you. Nevertheless, Its my belief that the largest profit percentages are made by short term traders who really have their psychology together. I've seen short term traders who could make as much as 50% or more per month (on small amounts of money such as a $50,000 account) when they were in tune with the market and them selves." So you can imagine how important the psychological part of the learning curve is.

So as i go through this learning curve im learning to control my emotions a lot better and i am beginning to gain a deeper knowledge of trading. And im realizing that we trade our selves not the markets. I think if i can keep my emotions under control i will be well on way to becoming more and more consistent. Well im out of here, hope this helps you guys. And please share some thoughts i think it will be helpful to your self and others.

Mike

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Funny seeing this. I posted this a long time ago and it just popped up in my email i get from TL. Glad to say im doing much better and i am well on my way to being a consistent trader. Its still a little bumpy from time to time. But i think the tough part is past me for now.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Congratulations on your trading, and your improvements. You seem to be learning very quickly. What do you use for indicators? Do you ever run your trading stats? I'm curious as to how long your average trade is, how many trades you make in a day, week. Do you ever look at your stats for things like how big a draw down you took?

 

The other thing I'm curious about is what your strategy is for getting your orders filled? Do your entry orders ever go unfilled? Do you use market orders or limit orders? Do you scale out?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I wouldn't say very quickly. I started the entire trading thing back in August of 2008 and i didn't get any real mentoring until July of 2009. So that year was just figuring out what shorting a stock was lol. I cant remember when i posted the original post but i think it was around August of 2009.

The person that mentored me fortunately didn't use any indicators (like MACD, Stoch Etc..) We did use the VB indicator in market delta to see divergences. He pretty much set my straight and on the correct course. I learned a lot from what he taught. And it has got me to where i am today. I did add a few things on my own because trading is about what works for you not every one else.

I do keep track of my stats but on a very limited basis. I find that the simpler i make my routine the more likely i am to keep doing it. I will track different things as i see the need. My trades are anywhere from a few minutes to maybe an hour or two depending on my expectations for the day. I usually take 2 to 4 trades a day sometimes one if nothing is going on. It really depends on what the market is giving for the day.

For my strategy i use market profile and TA and i will trade the auction process. I mostly use limit orders. Sometimes i will get left behind but thats how it goes. I will use market orders but very rarely. It really depends on what the market is doing and how it is setting up. For my entry's i try and get in at a spot where if i get stopped out i know im wrong and i use that as another data point.

As for scaling im not really at that level yet. I dont look for the Hollywood trade every time. I will look to take 2-3 points very quickly in the ES and sometime let 1 run for 4-5 points. The reason is that the way i see it trading is a game of size not points. If i were on bigger size i would exit most of my position for 2-3 points to reduce risk and bank something. If the market tells me that there is likely more to be had then i would leave a runner for what i see the market giving. Right now im not interested in getting 5 or 10 points. It would be nice but chance are i will not get the extended targets. I want to build my consistency and with consistency you can increase size. Then them 2 -3 point trades are as much as the average person makes in a month. And at that point i will let some run for extended targets.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Hi upullit4,

 

I'm brand new to trading. I've been reading a lot and literally hours of research. I have tried learning several indicators. So far, I would say that I'm struggling as I'm sure many beginners do. What advice would you give a new trader like myself? So far I have only traded stocks and I have only made a few (unsuccessful) trades. I hear many people trading forex and other unfamiliar things and I am not sure if I should see what it's all about or stick with stocks until I gain more experience. I don't really know where I can learn to be a better trader. I am willing to put in the work, but I just don't know where to go from here.

 

Thanks.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


  • Topics

  • Posts

    • Date: 11th July 2025.   Demand For Gold Rises As Trump Announces Tariffs!   Gold prices rose significantly throughout the week as investors took advantage of the 2.50% lower entry level. Investors also return to the safe-haven asset as the US trade policy continues to escalate. As a result, investors are taking a more dovish tone. The ‘risk-off’ appetite is also something which can be seen within the stock market. The NASDAQ on Thursday took a 0.90% dive within only 30 minutes.   Trade Tensions Escalate President Trump has been teasing with new tariffs throughout the week. However, the tariffs were confirmed on Thursday. A 35% tariff on Canadian imports starting August 1st, along with 50% tariffs on copper and goods from Brazil. Some experts are advising that Brazil has been specifically targeted due to its association with the BRICS.   However, the President has not directly associated the tariffs with BRICS yet. According to President Trump, Brazil is targeting US technology companies and carrying out a ‘witch hunt’against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a close ally who is currently facing prosecution for allegedly attempting to overturn the 2022 Brazilian election.   Although Brazil is one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the Americas, it is not the main concern for investors. Investors are more concerned about Tariffs on Canada. The White House said it will impose a 35% tariff on Canadian imports, effective August 1st, raised from the earlier 25% rate. This covers most goods, with exceptions under USMCA and exemptions for Canadian companies producing within the US.   It is also vital for investors to note that Canada is among the US;’s top 3 trading partners. The increase was justified by Trump citing issues like the trade deficit, Canada’s handling of fentanyl trafficking, and perceived unfair trade practices.   The President is also threatening new measures against the EU. These moves caused US and European stock futures to fall nearly 1%, while the Dollar rose and commodity prices saw small gains. However, the main benefactor was Silver and Gold, which are the two best-performing metals of the day.   How Will The Fed Impact Gold? The FOMC indicated that the number of members warming up to the idea of interest rate cuts is increasing. If the Fed takes a dovish tone, the price of Gold may further rise. In the meantime, the President pushing for a 3% rate cut sparked talk of a more dovish Fed nominee next year and raised worries about future inflation.   Meanwhile, jobless claims dropped for the fourth straight week, coming in better than expected and supporting the view that the labour market remains strong after last week’s solid payroll report. Markets still expect two rate cuts this year, but rate futures show most investors see no change at the next Fed meeting. Gold is expected to finish the week mostly flat.       Gold 15-Minute Chart     If the price of Gold increases above $3,337.50, buy signals are likely to materialise again. However, the price is currently retracing, meaning traders are likely to wait for regained momentum before entering further buy trades. According to HSBC, they expect an average price of $3,215 in 2025 (up from $3,015) and $3,125 in 2026, with projections showing a volatile range between $3,100 and $3,600   Key Takeaway Points: Gold Rises on Safe-Haven Demand. Gold gained as investors reacted to rising trade tensions and market volatility. Canada Tariffs Spark Concern. A 35% tariff on Canadian imports drew attention due to Canada’s key trade role. Fed Dovish Shift Supports Gold. Growing expectations of rate cuts and Trump’s push for a 3% cut boosted the gold outlook. Gold Eyes Breakout Above $3,337.5. Price is consolidating; a move above $3,337.50 could trigger new buy signals. Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.   Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.   Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.   Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!   Click HERE to READ more Market news.   Michalis Efthymiou HFMarkets   Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.
    • Back in the early 2000s, Netflix mailed DVDs to subscribers.   It wasn’t sexy—but it was smart. No late fees. No driving to Blockbuster.   People subscribed because they were lazy. Investors bought the stock because they realized everyone else is lazy too.   Those who saw the future in that red envelope? They could’ve caught a 10,000%+ move.   Another story…   Back in the mid-2000s, Amazon launched Prime.   It wasn’t flashy—but it was fast.   Free two-day shipping. No minimums. No hassle.   People subscribed because they were impatient. Investors bought the stock because they realized everyone hates waiting.   Those who saw the future in that speedy little yellow button? They could’ve caught another 10,000%+ move.   Finally…   Back in 2011, Bitcoin was trading under $10.   It wasn’t regulated—but it worked.   No bank. No middleman. Just wallet to wallet.   People used it to send money. Investors bought it because they saw the potential.   Those who saw something glimmering in that strange orange coin? They could’ve caught a 100,000%+ move.   The people who made those calls weren’t fortune tellers. They just noticed something simple before others did.   A better way. A quiet shift. A small edge. An asymmetric bet.   The red envelope fixed late fees. The yellow button fixed waiting. The orange coin gave billions a choice.   Of course, these types of gains are rare. And they happen only once in a blue moon. That’s exactly why it’s important to notice when the conditions start to look familiar.   Not after the move. Not once it's on CNBC. But in the quiet build-up— before the surface breaks.   Enter the Blue Button Please read more here: https://altucherconfidential.com/posts/netflix-amazon-bitcoin-blue  Profits from free accurate cryptos signals: https://www.predictmag.com/ 
    • What These Attacks Look Like There are several ways you could get hacked. And the threats compound by the day.   Here’s a quick rundown:   Phishing: Fake emails from your “bank.” Click the link, give your password—game over.   Ransomware: Malware that locks your files and demands crypto. Pay up, or it’s gone.   DDoS: Overwhelm a website with traffic until it crashes. Like 10,000 bots blocking the door. Often used by nations.   Man-in-the-Middle: Hackers intercept your messages on public WiFi and read or change them.   Social Engineering: Hackers pose as IT or drop infected USB drives labeled “Payroll.”   You don’t need to be “important” to be a target.   You just need to be online.   What You Can Do (Without Buying a Bunker) You don’t have to be tech-savvy.   You just need to stop being low-hanging fruit.   Here’s how:   Use a YubiKey (physical passkey device) or Authenticator app – Ditch text message 2FA. SIM swaps are real. Hackers often have people on the inside at telecom companies.   Use a password manager (with Yubikey) – One unique password per account. Stop using your dog’s name.   Update your devices – Those annoying updates patch real security holes. Use them.   Back up your files – If ransomware hits, you don’t want your important documents held hostage.   Avoid public WiFi for sensitive stuff – Or use a VPN.   Think before you click – Emails that feel “urgent” are often fake. Go to the websites manually for confirmation.   Consider Starlink in case the internet goes down – I think it’s time for me to make the leap. Don’t Panic. Prepare. (Then Invest.)   I spent an hour in that basement bar reading about cyberattacks—and watching real-world systems fall apart like dominos.   The internet going down used to be an inconvenience. Now, it’s a warning.   Cyberwar isn’t coming. It’s here.   And the next time your internet goes out, it might not just be your router.   Don’t panic. Prepare.   And maybe keep a backup plan in your back pocket. Like a local basement bar with good bourbon—and working WiFi.   As usual, we’re on the lookout for more opportunities in cybersecurity. Stay tuned.   Author: Chris Campbell (AltucherConfidential) Profits from free accurate cryptos signals: https://www.predictmag.com/   
    • DUMBSHELL:  re the automation of corruption ---  200,000 "Science Papers" in academic journal database PubMed may have been AI-generated with errors, hallucinations and false sourcing 
    • Does any crypto exchanges get banned in your country? How's about other as Bybit, Kraken, MEXC, OKX?
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use.