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Risk Management in Trading

Jul 9, 2025

Summary

  • The session focused on risk management basics in trading, particularly how much to risk per trade and the importance of discipline.
  • Key takeaways included the recommendation to risk only 1–3% of account size per trade or per day, and the necessity of treating trading with patience and emotional control.
  • Attendees were encouraged to prioritize skill development over quick profits and to avoid overtrading or overleveraging.
  • Emphasis was placed on the inevitability of losses in early trading and the need for strong discipline to achieve long-term success.

Action Items

  • Attendees: Research how to calculate 1–3% risk per trade for your specific market (options, futures, forex) using online calculators.
  • Attendees: Write down your personal risk management rules—1–3% per trade/day and planned daily trade limits—in your notes.
  • Attendees: Reflect on your discipline and emotional reactions after each trading session to identify and prevent repeat mistakes.

Risk Management Fundamentals

  • Risk management is primarily about determining how much to risk per trade and sticking to it.
  • Recommended risk is 1–3% of total account size per trade, regardless of trading instrument (options, futures, forex).
  • Overtrading and risking more than the set percentage leads to accelerated losses and emotional pitfalls.

Discipline and Mindset in Trading

  • Discipline and maintaining a strong, stable mindset are even more important than risk management mechanics.
  • Emotional responses, especially after losses, can lead to overtrading and greater losses if not managed.
  • Treat each account, regardless of size, with the seriousness you would offer to a much larger account.
  • Avoid the "get rich quick" mentality; sustainable trading success takes time, patience, and learning from mistakes.

Practical Guidance and Next Steps

  • Use online resources (Google, position size calculators) to determine proper risk amounts for each trade.
  • Log personal risk tolerance and enforce a daily risk limit to avoid blowing up accounts after a losing streak.
  • Focus learning on mastering the skill of chart reading rather than seeking immediate monetary gains.

Decisions

  • Set risk per trade/day at 1–3% of account value — This approach prevents large drawdowns, promotes account longevity, and enforces discipline among traders.

Open Questions / Follow-Ups

  • None raised; session was instructional and did not solicit attendee-specific questions.