There are many points of view that you have for all of the areas of your life. Basically, every story you hold on to has your own point of view. Those points of view are developed by your experiences and the beliefs you choose. Analyzing, and questioning those “points of YOU,” can give you a new perspective. The following exercise can dramatically change your life should you choose to follow through on completing it. And of course, what changes your life, changes your trading.

First, let us look at some of the areas in life where changing your point of view would make the difference between status quo and earning more profits.

Life issues:
· What do you think about life in general?

· What do you believe about your life in particular?

· How do you view your childhood?

· What do you feel about each significant person in your life?

· What would have to change to improve your life and relationships?

All negative and conflicting thoughts will limit your success.

Trading issues:

· What do you believe about your trading strategy?

· How do you feel about your discipline and consistency?

· How much would you be earning if you followed your rules?

· What would have to change in order for you to earn more profits?

Once you have a good strategy, then it is all about you following that strategy.

Take each one of these issues and look at them from the point of view of others whom you respect. You might choose different people for each one of these points of view, or look at many points of view from several people.

People such as:

· Family members

· Peers

· Mentors

· Clergy

· Teachers

· People you do not know, but that you can imagine

Notice how you feel and what lessons come up for you when observing the point of view of others.

Here is an example using one of the trading questions from above:

Question:

How do you feel about your discipline issues?

Your point of view:
My discipline would improve if I trusted myself and trusted my system.

Friend’s point of view:

I’ve seen you be disciplined in every area of your life. You might want to check out what you are doing differently in your trading.

Spouse:

Until you can prove to me that you can make money, I will see trading as gambling. If it takes discipline to make the difference, then you must define what that means. If you cannot do it or find someone to assist you in becoming disciplined, get out of trading.

Mentor’s point of view:
Your discipline must start with your completing a plan and testing your theory.

If you can make money in simulated trading and cannot in trading real money, then the issue is you and you should seek out help.

Of course, if you are being honest with yourself, you might not like all the answers. But remember that all answers have an element of truth and lessons to be learned.

Conclusion

The point of view you choose to have will make the difference in status quo or greater success. When you allow yourself to see other people’s point of view, then you might be giving yourself the added edge you need to make the difference between status quo and great success.