Stock Doc: Motivational Catalysts for the Trader

Dave is the type of trader I see who is in his or her late-20s or early 30s and has had the first taste of financial success. In this case, Dave had taken one good month way too far in terms of indulgence. His mood was euphoric and bordered on fanatic.

The alcohol binging could be a precursor for a depressive episode later on and would definitely hurt him in terms of remaining focused and motivated at work. Additionally, his personal relationships were crumbling as he began to neglect the needs of his future wife. Reckless trading could really set him up for an emotional collapse, but fortunately his fiancée pushed him to seek help.

Both Jon and Dave were struggling with life, but in different ways. They both couldn't get out of bed in the morning as their emotions were simply dulled.

Morning Pep Talk

For those experiencing behavioral paralysis that halters any motivation to get to work each day, try committing to some of the following motivational catalysts.

For black-and-white thinkers like Jon, this technique will make hard times seem temporary and changeable rather than permanent and hopeless. For those like Dave, it will force them to realize how much they have at stake with their career and how much discipline success truly requires.

At the start of every new day, wake up, get out of bed and recite one or all of the following:

• Today is a new day and will be a new start for me.
• I get paid to make tough decisions!
• My actions this morning will impact how I feel and how I produce later today.
• I remember how much work I put into getting into this high-stakes career. I will not take it for granted!
• I can control my thoughts and be disciplined to make better decisions.
• Swing through the hitting zone and focus on fundamentals.
• It is what it is!

Please write to the Stock Doc with your trading, emotional or investing dilemmas. Dr. Cass always welcomes comments and stories, for which he'll try to offer valuable solutions in later columns.