By Nathan Boardman
Within the Forex industry, many theories and arguments exist about the efficacy of acquiring Forex trading knowledge through the guidance of a trading “coach” or mentor. Consequently, a diverse range of responses has emerged about this matter.
It is within the realm of feasibility for individuals aspiring to become traders to acquire the requisite skills and knowledge to engage in successful trading endeavors, provided they demonstrate a willingness to undertake the requisite actions. The inquiry pertains to necessity, specifically in adopting a pragmatic approach and acquiring proficiency in a viable trading methodology.
An additional layer, commonly called “the psychology factor,” will be incorporated, presenting a complex aspect that requires careful consideration. It is imperative to acknowledge that regardless of the proficiency of a trading mentor, the cognitive faculties and psychological disposition of the student significantly contribute to the outcome of success or failure in trading endeavors.
Which Is More Important, Nature or Nurture?
Efforts are exerted to impart knowledge on the intricate aspects of trader psychology, thereby fostering the cultivation of cognitive faculties and self-control. However, it is incumbent upon each trader to undertake the arduous task of honing their mental framework and cultivating indispensable trading attributes such as discipline and patience.
Notably, a significant proportion of Forex traders experience failure primarily due to an inclination towards excessive trading and the subsequent development of addictive tendencies in their trading activities. Regrettably, this behavioral pattern expeditiously leads to the depletion of trading accounts.
It is accurate to assert that trading aptitude may vary among individuals, as specific individuals possess brain chemistry that aligns more favorably with the prerequisites for success in trading endeavors. Culturing discipline, patience, and intrinsic motivation to foster constructive habits is intrinsically linked to the intricate workings of our brain chemistry. Specific individuals possess a more favorable amalgamation of neurochemical constituents conducive to these attributes.
Engaging in trading may present varying levels of ease for individuals, but it is important to note that it is a manageable task for all individuals. Through sufficient determination and enthusiasm, it is possible to surmount any potential brain chemistry deficiency that may impede one’s trading abilities.
The conclusion reached regarding the ongoing discourse surrounding the dichotomy of “nature vs. nurture” within the context of trading suggests that while inherent qualities may indeed provide certain advantages, the application of comprehensive nurturing measures has the potential to counterbalance any perceived limitations effectively. The degree of one’s aspiration for success as a trader and dedication to acquiring knowledge are determining factors.
A Trade-off Between Nature and Nurture
One notable illustration of the efficacy of a proficient trading mentor in imparting the necessary skills and knowledge to developing traders can be found in the case of Richard Dennis’s Turtles. The Turtles were individuals who received instruction in the art of trading under the tutelage of Richard Dennis after a wager made with his associate William Eckhart, who expressed skepticism regarding the teachability of trading.
An advertisement was strategically positioned in the Wall Street Journal, resulting in the selecting of a diverse group of individuals comprising 21 males and two females. At the same time, a portion of individuals possessed limited trading exposure, and most needed to gain prior experience in this domain. Dennis outlined the prerequisites encompassed a steadfast dedication to adhere to one’s trading psychology, coupled with the unwavering resolve to adhere to a prescribed trading system.
Following an extensive training period spanning several weeks, each individual commenced trading activities with exceptional outcomes. Subsequently, a subsequent cohort underwent the same training regimen. Eckhart acknowledges that the acquisition of trading skills can be accomplished through the guidance of a proficient mentor and the presence of a receptive and open-minded student.
The “Turtle Traders” system, although lacking practical relevance in contemporary markets, still upholds the integrity that an aspiring trader can effectively acquire trading skills under the guidance of a seasoned trading coach or mentor. Traders have historically benefited from the advice and instruction provided by mentors and coaches, a practice that remains prevalent in the present era.
One must introspect and deliberate upon the decision to embark on a solitary journey or dedicate a substantial period to self-investment and the acquisition of trading knowledge. To acquire proficiency in trading, one must be willing to undertake requisite measures and cultivate a comprehensive comprehension of market dynamics and the essential requisites for effective participation.
Traders Who Are Successful in Comparison to Those Who Are Not
Acquiring an effective trading method, comprehensive knowledge of trader psychology, and proficient money management skills are undoubtedly crucial components in pursuing success within the markets. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the existence of an intangible factor commonly referred to as “gut feel,” which possesses the potential to exert a substantial influence on the outcomes experienced by aspiring traders.
Successful traders engage in practices that their unsuccessful counterparts are unwilling or perhaps negligent to undertake. The prevailing inclination among traders is to seek a system that will generate monetary gains on their behalf when, in actuality, it is the trader who, through the utilization of a system or trading method, is responsible for generating said profits.
A trader achieves this objective by thoroughly familiarizing themselves with their chosen trading method and diligently acquiring mastery. This approach mirrors the successful practices employed by the Turtle traders under Richard Dennis’s system, and it is incumbent upon you to adopt a similar approach when engaging with any strategy or plan you opt to employ in your trading endeavors.
The acquisition of successful trading abilities is akin to any professional pursuit, necessitating a dedicated investment of time towards developing and honing requisite aptitudes. The addition of proficient trading skills is not an inherent trait bestowed upon individuals at birth, irrespective of their innate talent for trading. Analogously, expertise in piloting, medicine, and other disciplines is not a natural attribute. Individuals must allocate sufficient time to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed within their selected vocation.
Many educators and seminar companies within the Forex industry propagate the notion of concealed knowledge and infallible trading systems. However, the crux lies in identifying a seasoned and accomplished trader, assimilating their wisdom to the fullest extent possible, and cultivating one’s aptitude and distinctive trading approach based on the acquired knowledge.
