Loop of Repeated Mistakes

Making mistakes is a natural part of life. But they become a real problem when they are repeated unconsciously. Imagine creating a flawed character in a video game - one with weaknesses that keep holding you back. If you keep playing without making changes, the game never becomes enjoyable. Trading works the same way.

The challenge is that most traders don’t even realize they’re repeating the same mistakes. That’s where journaling comes in. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most powerful tools available.

Jim Rohn famously said that if you always carry a small journal, you’ll capture ideas and insights you never imagined you could think of.

I couldn’t agree more. A trading journal doesn’t just record trades - it reveals patterns in your thinking and behaviour.

Psychology research supports this. Pennebaker & Smyth (2016) found that reflective writing increases self-awareness and reduces repeated errors by making unconscious patterns visible. In trading, journaling allows you to notice…