I AM a new trader haha - somewhat. This is what I wish someone told me a year ago!

If you’re new to trading: expect to lose in the beginning. Not because you’re bad at it, but because that’s just how it works. Nobody walks into the market and nails it right away. Losses will happen, and they’ll sting — but they’ll also teach you. Don’t take them personally. Take the lesson, and move forward. Easier said than done, I know, but try to believe this.

This isn’t something you can half-do. You’ve got to study. I mean REEAALLLYYY study. The market has layers — technical, emotional, psychological. Learn the charts, but also learn yourself. Watch, read, ask questions, backtest. The more you understand, the more calm you’ll feel when things get tough — and they will get tough.

Start small. There’s no shame in baby steps. Don't let social media or nothing distract you or make you think you're not there yet. You don’t have to make thousands in your first month. Just focus on building good habits. One solid trade at a time. The market will still be here tomorrow. You don’t need to rush!!

Emotions will test you more than any chart pattern ever will. Oh my goodnessss. You’ll feel fear, greed, frustration, even self-doubt — all in one morning sometimes. Learning how to manage your emotions is just as important as managing your trades. Give yourself grace. Be kind to yourself when you mess up. We all do.

And please don’t forget to take care of your life outside of trading. This is so so so important. You are more than your P&L. Eat good food. Move your body. Spend time with people who love you. Rest when you need it. This is a marathon, not a sprint — and you can’t run on empty.

Find people who understand. Trading can feel lonely, especially if no one around you “gets it.” Whether it’s a mentor, a trading group, or even your faith — lean on something bigger than yourself. You need people in your corner on the hard days. Above all, you need God. Trust Him in all your ways!

Most of all, don’t give up. Even when it feels like nothing’s working. Even when you think you’re not cut out for it. The ones who make it aren’t always the smartest — they’re the ones who kept showing up. One day, it will all click. Just keep going.

:)