I had a powerful conversation with my Protege group recently.
We were discussing what truly holds traders back, and it’s not what most people think.
Here’s the truth:
Many traders get stuck in an endless loop of preparation, spending years trying to build the “perfect” strategy and portfolio.
And they never make a single trade.
I call these people “preparation perfectionists.” Maybe you know one. Maybe you are one.
They think they’re being smart and careful. But in reality?
They’re making a costly mistake.
Here’s why:
While you’re planning and preparing, you’re missing out on the most valuable education in trading… real market experience.
And you know what?
That experience doesn’t have to cost you much.
You can trade micros with a small account and limit your downside to just $1,000. That’s less than most people spend on coffee each year.
Yes, you might lose that money…
But what you gain is worth SO much more…
Real-world experience, emotional resilience, and practical insights you can’t get from any course or book.
I’ve seen traders stuck in analysis paralysis for YEARS, afraid to pull the trigger.
Meanwhile, others start small, learn from their mistakes, and quickly iterate their way to success.
The difference?
They understand that a $1,000 loss isn’t just a loss – it’s tuition paid to the market for lessons that will serve you throughout your trading career.
The market doesn’t care how many books you’ve read. It cares what you do when real money is on the line.
Remember, there are two types of risk in trading:
- The risk of losing money, and…
- The risk of never gaining experience.
In the long run, the second risk can be far more expensive.
Start small, learn, and iterate.
But start.
Tomas.
