Your mindset check-in: 3 questions to ask before you trade

Trading is often described as a game of numbers, timing, and technical analysis. But long before you place an order, it’s a game of mindset.

Every trading day brings a mix of opportunity and risk. And how you show up mentally can shape how you manage both.

After a loss, it’s easy to fall into self-blame.

That’s why it helps to build a habit around checking in with yourself before you enter the market. Just thirty seconds. Three questions. A simple pause that can help you trade with more focus, confidence, and control.

Let’s walk through it.

Question 1: Am I calm?

You already know the market can be unpredictable. But your mindset doesn’t have to be. Before you enter a trade, ask yourself:

• Am I feeling clear and focused?
• Or am I reacting emotionally?

There’s no shame in being stressed, tired, or frustrated. It happens to everyone. But trading from that headspace can lead to mistakes you later regret. If you’re not calm, take a breath. Step back for a few minutes. Reset your energy before you make a decision.

Even a short pause to clear your head can change the outcome of your day.

Question 2: Am I following my plan?

This question brings you back to your process.

Ask yourself:

• Did I plan this trade ahead of time?
• Or am I reacting to what I see on the screen?

When you chase the market or act on impulse, you risk abandoning the strategy you worked hard to build. That’s when discipline slips and emotion takes over.

Good trades come from preparation, not pressure. Stick to your plan or wait for the next setup

Question 3: What is my risk?

Before you click, get clear on what you’re willing to lose.

Ask:

• How much risk am I comfortable taking on this trade?
• Do I have a stop loss in place?

It’s easy to overlook this step, especially if you’re in the heat of the moment. But knowing your risk ahead of time keeps you grounded. It protects your capital, reinforces discipline, and helps you make decisions you can stand by.

Build the habit

This check-in only takes a few moments, but doing it consistently can transform how you trade

It’s not about being perfect, but about building the kind of habits that support long-term focus, control, and resilience.

In the next volume of Mindset Mastery, we’ll dive into what to do when the day isn’t going your way – and how to reset before it takes a toll on your performance.