A successful trading career requires preparation, practice and perfection. You will strive for flawless execution in your business operations, and you will achieve this by envisioning what you want, outlining a game plan, and sticking to it. As you venture into trading pits, you will learn that one of the most important characteristics a successful trader gains is discipline. By following his game plan and not deterring him, he has the potential to make a lot of money in the markets.

One of the first things you should do is set realistic goals for yourself. It’s easier to achieve success when you have something to work for. Start small by looking to earn $250 a day and envision yourself achieving that goal. Go ahead, close your eyes, visualize a check in your hands for $250. What does the handwriting look like on the paycheck? How does the check feel in your hands? Imagine every detail of your desired goal.

It’s important to start small and work your way up to bigger goals so you don’t get discouraged. It is also important to think positively and visualize yourself achieving the goals you set for yourself. What you imagine in your mind will materialize in real life. If you focus on the negative or on the mistakes you have made, you will not be successful. Think positive and your trading activity will generate profit!

After you’ve set goals, you need to work on an action plan to achieve them. This is the part where discipline comes into play. The game plan you have outlined is your strategy for success. It has created rules to guide you through the markets and limits to manage risk. You should stick to this game plan and not determine it from your initial strategy. I have seen too many traders say they will change their strategy “just this once” which leads them down the wrong path. You must follow your rules all the time, every time, without exception. It is only through discipline and confidence that you will find trading success.

Confidence comes when you know you are operating with your best interest in mind. To do this, you need to be objective about trading and not get attached to certain market positions. If the markets surprise you (which they will), it’s important to be flexible about your trading.

Trading is like any challenge. You must prepare and practice for success before you can achieve it. This will take time, but once you get the hang of it, your quick and confident actions will see you through any market day.

Trade well and follow the trend, not the so-called “experts”.