Oftentimes traders tend to focus for long periods of time and thus they reach a level of attentional fatigue and the mind wanders. Trading mistakes are made when a buy to open should have been a sell to close and anger can set in. A simple Stroop Effect test provides insight into the cognitive effects that are experienced as a result of attentional fatigue. Try it out for yourself.

Directions: Click on the image below and it will open up into a larger image. Quickly say aloud what color you see in every word, NOT the word you read.

Take a break when you find yourself making mistakes or losing focus during the trading day. Get up, walk around the office or exercise in some capacity. The blood flow alone can do wonders for your mind. Remember, trading is a skills based business and if your mental game is off your skills will suffer.