I can't give you a single reality check; the truth is I've had many in this trading journey. Here are those 10 that have cost me dearly to learn:
I've lost more than I expected: Losses are inevitable, and I realized that without accepting them, you won't move forward.
The market has humbled me: I thought I had everything under control, but I learned that it owes me nothing, and that hit me hard.
My strategies have failed: I thought I had the perfect method, but there are always days that show me I need to adjust and keep going.
My emotions have betrayed me: Fear has made me exit early and greed has landed me in trouble. Controlling them is my daily struggle.
Fast money is a myth: I wanted to get rich in weeks, but trading taught me that it's a long journey full of setbacks.
Knowing how to analyze is not enough: I filled myself with indicators and charts, but without managing my mindset and risk, it's worthless.
A bad day has knocked everything down for me: An uncontrolled trade wiped out months of profits. I learned that risk comes first.
There are things I don't master: Surprise news or strange movements have taken me out of the game, and I accepted that not everything depends on me.
Discipline has saved me: I'm not the brightest, but following my rules has kept me afloat when things get tough.
Not everyone is made for this: I've seen friends give up and I myself doubted, because trading tests you to the core.
Those are my hits, brother. Each one has hurt me, but it has made me stronger. Which one has hit you?