The holidays are crazy for most people, and some might say the market is crazy right now as well. Whether or not you think the latter is true, the one thing that is for sure is you sometimes need to take a break from trading. The holidays are a perfect time.

I have written several posts at various times of year on the importance of taking time off as a trader or investor. Trading can be very stressful, and anything we do in life that is stressful cannot be sustained in a proper way without time away. In addition, time off gives traders and investors a chance to review previous trades and work on or adjust their trading plans.

Not only can the holiday season be stressful, but it can also be hectic and filled with lots of social plans and events. As a trader or investor, your mind must be in the game so to speak. If you are keeping a crazy and hectic schedule, how likely is it that you are going to be profitable? The answer is not very.

We all need to take some time off from trading here and there, and that’s not dependent on whether we are doing well. When there is the added volatility the holidays can bring, it is smart to take a break and concentrate on what is really important in life…family.

Happy Holidays!

John Kmiecik, Market Taker Mentoring