Goal Setting

Goal setting is an aspect of trading which do not receive proper attention. Goals motivate us to devise a plan and maintain discipline. Goals drive us to take action and are a must if one is to succeed in all walks of life. Absence of well defined goals is drifting aimlessly without a proper destination.

Goals should be realistic and achievable. Otherwise it may lead to frustration and discouragement. Better to start with realistic, achievable goals and raise the bar as you progress.

We need to set performance goals and financial goals. In my opinion performance goals are more important than financial goals. I agree the ultimate aim of every trader is to make money from the market, but focusing on profitability alone will do more harm than good.

If our goal is to make Rs 5000/- a day, trading, it will force us to trade incorrectly. We will lose patience and take mediocre trades anxious to reach the set goals. Once we achieve the daily target, we may hesitate to enter on good setups as we will be afraid to lose already earned profit  and miss the daily target. Daily financial goals are counter productive. Do not set daily financial goals; you will be better with weekly or monthly goals.

Focus on performance goals on a day today basis. Our aim should be to stick to the plan and focus on the process. Define the trading process well and set goals to achieve consistency. Let the correct process allow you to achieve your financial targets.