# Fatigue and Overtrading

Short-term trading is mentally demanding.

Speed, constant attention, and frequent decision making creates fatigue faster than most traders expect.

Without discipline, fatigue turns into overtrading.

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### How fatigue builds

Fatigue usually builds through:

* constant screen time
* reacting to every move
* emotional swings from wins and losses
* pressure to stay involved

At first, this feels manageable.

Over time, it erodes judgment.

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### Signs you are overtrading

Common warning signs include:

* taking trades without clear setups
* increasing size impulsively
* chasing moves out of boredom
* ignoring market conditions
* forcing trades to feel productive

Overtrading is rarely intentional.

It usually starts subtly.

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### Why overtrading is dangerous

Overtrading leads to:

* sloppy execution
* emotional decision making
* larger losses
* rapid drawdowns
* burnout

The market does not reward constant participation.

It rewards selectivity.

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### Knowing when to stop

Strong traders know when to step back.

Consider stopping or reducing activity when:

* trades feels rushed
* emotions feel elevated
* losses start clustering
* focus begins to fade

Stepping back is not weakness.

It is risk management.

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### Creating limits

To prevent fatigue and overtrading:

* set daily trade limits
* define maximum loss thresholds
* schedule breaks away from screens
* avoid trading out of boredom

Structure protects discipline.

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### Switching strategies intentionally

There will be periods where short term trading is no longer sustainable.

In those moments:

* reduce frequency
* switch to slower strategies
* preserve capital and clarity

Being adaptable matters more than forcing one approach.

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### The long-term perspective

Short-term trading can be profitable.

But only if:

* risk is controlled
* discipline is maintained
* fatigue is managed

Longevity matters more than intensity.

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{% hint style="info" %}
If trading feels compulsive instead of intentional, it is time to pause.

Discipline is knowing when not to trade.
{% endhint %}
