I find this to be the hardest part of trading, having patience and overcoming fear and anxiousness.
Is it something that changes with time, or is there something that has helped you overcome it by practising with it?
There are actually a bunch of similar topics here, so I recommend using the search button. Here are a few links you could check out:
Itâs important that you donât lump all your emotions into one pile and look for one way to solve all of them. Learn to separate the different emotions you feel because they each probably have different root causes.
For the old me, fear and anxiety was due to taking on too much risk, too much leverage, too large positions sizes etc. Once I reduced these, fear and anxiety were virtually gone to the point where trading feels quite boring.
My impatience had another root cause entirely. I was impatient because I grew up with the belief that I had to work hard to be successful, which translated to over trading. What I did was to take the âwork hardâ ethic and put it into studying as much as I could about how markets work and analysis, analysis, analysis to understand what the charts are trying to say.
I totally understand where youâre coming from â patience and managing emotions like fear and anxiety can be incredibly challenging in trading. I struggled with this a lot when I started, and honestly, itâs a journey that changes with time and practice.
For me, two things really helped. First, having a solid trading plan gave me a sense of structure. When you know your entry, exit, and risk levels in advance, itâs easier to stick to your strategy without letting emotions take over. Second, I started using a demo account consistently, especially when I was feeling anxious or uncertain. It allowed me to practice my strategies and build confidence without the pressure of real money at risk.
Over time, this routine helped me gain trust in my own skills and judgment. That doesnât mean the fear and anxiety disappear completely, but they definitely become more manageable as your experience grows. Give yourself time, and focus on developing routines that reinforce your confidence.
Patience and overcoming fear in trading improve with experience and mindfulness. Over time, you become more comfortable with uncertainty. Practicing risk management, setting clear goals, and focusing on long-term growth helps reduce anxiety. Consistent reflection on past decisions also builds confidence and emotional resilience.
A good book on the subject -
âBEST LOSER WINSâ - Tom Hougaard
Hope this helps.
As a trader, every trader must find their way, I was one of those traders that hit buy or sell expecting the trade to go in my favor without considering the spread or drawdown, resulting in panic. As I study my system in detail, I realize the drawdown is inevitable and I need to relax and wait for the final results before making any adverse decisions.
Trading can mess with your head sometimes when you do not have a solid trading plan prepared in advance. It can help you for the best and the worse scenario outcome.
When I feel emotions creeping in, I remind myself of my whyâmy trading goals, the patience it requires, and the journey Iâm on. Sometimes stepping away from the screen is the reset I need to keep my cool.
Patience and managing fear are definitely challenges, but they improve over time with experience. As I practice more, Iâve learned to trust my strategy and stick to my plan, even during volatile moments. Mindfulness techniques and focusing on long-term goals have also helped me stay calm and disciplined.
For me, trading goes beyond technical analysis - itâs about mastering my own emotions. Iâve learned that staying calm, sticking to my strategy, and being patient through uncertainty are just as important as any chart or indicator. Resilience comes from experience, and sometimes you have to learn the hard way. But in the end, itâs about following your trading plan and not letting emotions take over.