You can have the perfect trading strategy on paper…
but still lose money every week.
Why?
Because strategy isn’t everything — execution and mindset are just as critical.
Over the years, I’ve seen (and made) almost every major mistake a trader can make.
Here are the most common strategy-related mistakes that destroy accounts:
1. Strategy-Hopping
Constantly switching between indicators, timeframes, and styles.
A strategy needs data and patience — if you change every week, you’ll never know what really works.
2. Ignoring Market Conditions
Some strategies work in trends, others in ranges.
If you’re using a breakout strategy in a choppy market — you're not trading smart, you're gambling.
3. No Backtesting or Journaling
If you can't tell me your win rate, average R:R, or how your setup behaves — you don’t have a strategy. You have a hope.
4. Risking Too Much, Too Soon
Even the best edge will fail you if your lot size is oversized.
Start small. Size up only when you’ve earned it.
5. Forcing Trades Outside the Plan
The market doesn’t care if you’re bored.
Wait for your setup, your confirmation, your entry signal — or don’t trade at all.
6. Not Adapting Over Time
Markets evolve. Strategies need refinement, not abandonment.
Review monthly. Improve logically. Stay ahead.
The truth is:
It’s not the strategy that fails most traders —
It’s how they treat their strategy.
Trade with discipline.
Test with data.
Evolve with experience.