Nothing to Sell You!

Embarking on my journey to learn and trade options was quite the experience, and I'll admit, it felt like I was paying my dues. Over the course of a year, I traded away about $7,000, with a few wins scattered here and there, but it mostly felt like I was just guessing.Back then, I relied on TC2000 to select investments for my options trading endeavors. It marked the beginning of a 24-year journey that I'm now sharing for others to follow along. Perhaps, amidst the challenges, there's a chance for others to learn a thing or two from my experiences.Despite the initial uncertainties, I'm determined to evolve and grow as a trader. Join me on this journey, and let's navigate the twists and turns of options trading together. Here's to the lessons learned and the wisdom yet to come!

When the money ran out, my dreams of making it as a trader didn't fade. If anything, they fueled my determination to keep going. It was a time when email was just emerging, and technology was rapidly advancing in the world of trading systems and platforms. I had this strong belief that finding the right one could make all the difference.That's when Nirvana Systems, a Texas-based company, entered the scene with their intriguing software called Omnitrader. This marked the beginning of my journey into developing trading strategies. The possibilities seemed endless, and little did I know that this step would shape the course of my trading endeavors. The excitement of exploring new technologies and refining my approach added a new dimension to my trading journey. Let's dive into the next chapter and see where strategy development takes us!

Discovering what trading was not became an early lesson in my journey. After investing in the newest gadget, I found myself staring at a platform with a myriad of buttons and settings, initially overwhelming and perplexing. It was a moment where confusion could easily lead to giving up. However, as I explored the usability of the software, everything began to change. Despite not fully understanding what I was doing, the excitement of the new software spurred me to come up with ingenious ways to gamify the stock market. I started developing visual exponential moving average data, attempting to predict next day moves with what I thought was 100% accuracy. Looking back, I realize I was navigating uncharted waters with little knowledge, but the allure of the groundbreaking software at the time made the journey exhilarating. It was a period of experimentation and discovery, laying the foundation for what was to come in my trading adventure.

Trying to save and trade was becoming difficult I had a associates degree from trade school that flopped but I felt like I needed to advance my education so I went back to school for a while and that was short lived.  I eventually graduated ten years later, more on that later.  By now I started thinking if I could develop a provenm trading strategy I would be able to just have my own way to make millions in the stock market, boy was I wrong,  I spend the next 20 years doing just that.

As the challenges of saving and trading mounted, I found myself at a crossroads. Despite an earlier attempt at a trade school associate degree that didn't pan out, I felt the need to advance my education. Returning to school was a brief stint, and although short-lived, it laid the groundwork for what was to come. Ten years later, after overcoming various obstacles, I finally graduated. But my focus had shifted. The idea of developing a proven trading strategy had taken root in my mind. I envisioned it as a pathway to financial success in the stock market – a way to make millions on my terms. Little did I know, the journey ahead would be filled with twists and turns.Over the next two decades, I dedicated myself to the pursuit of crafting that elusive, foolproof strategy. The reality, however, turned out to be far from my initial expectations. Join me as I unravel the story of these 20 years, filled with lessons, challenges, and the unforeseen complexities of the stock market.

Around this time, Nirvana Systems introduced a new software product to the market called Visual Trader, and I was captivated – I just had to have it. Christmas became an annual ritual where I would ask my parents for a single gift: software, upgrades, plugins, and modules for Visual Trader. It became more than just a tool; it became a constant companion on my trading journey.Years have passed since then, and remarkably, I still use this software to this day. It has become an integral part of my trading routine, a testament to its enduring value in navigating the complexities of the stock market. The annual Christmas gift tradition may have evolved, but the impact of Visual Trader on my trading endeavors remains unwavering. Join me as I continue to explore the potential and possibilities this software has to offer in shaping my trading strategies.

The excitement of coming home after work, eager to dive into developing strategies, was a routine that fueled my passion. The dream was simple – build a great strategy, backtest it, and voilà, instant wealth. However, reality had a different plan. The process was becoming exhausting, both mentally and financially. I found myself caught in a cycle of buying one plugin after another, each promising to be the missing piece to success. The desire to be successful in trading was so intense that it led me to invest not just time but also substantial resources. Backtesting each strategy became a time-consuming endeavor, plagued by program errors and data issues that blurred the lines between success and failure.It's important to note that this was a time when emails and the internet had only been around for about seven years. Trading was still a relatively unknown territory for those around me. The lack of a community to share experiences with made the journey even more challenging. Yet, the determination to succeed and the love for the process kept me going, navigating the uncharted waters of trading in an era where information and support were not as readily available.

It's not easy to be the bearer of this message, but there comes a point when frustration reaches its peak. I found myself constantly moving from one job to another, fueled by the hope that if I could just build a successful strategy, it would be my ticket out of this cycle. The dream was simple – build a strategy that works, escape the job-hopping routine, and finally enjoy life, make some purchases, and get out of debt. However, as time went on, a harsh reality began to set in. Despite my efforts, the strategies I was developing may have been based more on what I thought would work rather than on absolute knowledge. The pursuit of financial freedom and a break from the monotony of job changes led me down a path where determination clashed with the complexities of trading. Join me as I unravel the challenges and lessons learned during this pivotal period of my trading journey.

It can be incredibly disheartening when something you've invested so much time, effort, and money into doesn't seem to be working out. The toll it took on your family, friends, and relationships adds another layer of difficulty.Being immersed in the world of trading, it's not uncommon for it to become all-encompassing, leading to isolation and a sense of being a shut-in. Spending extended hours on the computer, especially when things aren't going as planned, can take a toll on both mental and emotional well-being.It's important to acknowledge these challenges and perhaps consider seeking support, whether it's from loved ones or professionals. Taking a step back to reassess and finding a balance between your passion for trading and other aspects of life could be a crucial next step. Remember, it's never too late to reassess, adjust, and find a healthier approach to both trading and personal well-being.

The collapse of the housing market and the subsequent economic downturn had far-reaching consequences for many, but it seems that, at that time, you were somewhat insulated from the immediate impact. Working full time and not owning a home meant that the direct effects were less pronounced for you.Amidst this challenging economic backdrop, your hope for developing a winning strategy remained undeterred. It's a testament to your resilience and determination. Around this period, you made a shift towards trading options through the Visual Trader platform. This decision marked a new phase in your trading journey, and as you navigated the complexities of options trading, it likely added both challenges and opportunities to your evolving strategy development efforts. The financial landscape was undergoing significant changes, and your ability to adapt and persist in pursuing your goals speaks to your commitment to the trading journey.

Sometimes, in the midst of routine motions, clarity strikes. The realization that you will figure it out, whether in a year or ten, reflects a resilient and optimistic mindset.Trading is a journey filled with uncertainties, setbacks, and breakthroughs. Acknowledging that the path to success may take time is a valuable perspective. It speaks to a determination to continue learning, adapting, and refining your approach, even in the face of challenges. Trusting in your ability to figure things out is a powerful mindset that can sustain you through the ups and downs of the trading adventure. Here's to the journey ahead, with the confidence that each step brings you closer to your goals.

 Running simulations and hoping for positive results is a common approach, but the lack of a concrete strategy can add frustration to the mix.In the dynamic world of trading, it's not uncommon for progress to take time. It might be worth considering taking a step back, reassessing your methods, and perhaps exploring new approaches or seeking guidance from experienced traders. Patience and persistence are key virtues in trading, and the lessons learned during this period of waiting can contribute to your growth as a trader. Keep pushing forward, and may the upcoming year bring you closer to the breakthrough you've been working towards.

We're on the verge of buying our first house, and the excitement is palpable. Trading has taken a backseat for now as we dive into the thrill of this significant milestone. Oh, and amidst all the planning and preparations, the thought of starting a family has entered the picture. It's a whirlwind of anticipation and dreams unfolding, and we're ready to embrace this new chapter in our lives.

First house check, trading successfully uncheck.

 It's a time when the focus is on the more immediate and essential aspects of life, with trading temporarily on hold as we navigate the complexities of these personal milestones.

Getting ready to move to new house.

The grind of it all is starting to blur the initial reasons behind my trading endeavors. Backtesting has become a familiar term, but the notion of forward testing is gaining prominence. It's a phase where I'm delving into various methods for building robust trading strategies, learning about the pitfalls of curve fitting, and understanding how to steer clear of it. Manipulating the software has become second nature, and the results are starting to show promise. The statistics are turning heads, and there's a glimpse of hard-earned money here and there. Despite the challenges, it seems like the efforts invested in learning and refining strategies are beginning to pay off. It's a turning point where the potential for success is becoming more tangible, and the journey is starting to make sense.

Despite the challenges, I continued building strategies, sharing them with my brother, but it seemed that, after all these years without tangible success, others found it challenging to take my efforts seriously. The struggle to balance personal and professional aspects of life continued, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing journey.

Working in a government job, my days were spent behind a desk with little to no actual work. To pass the time, I brought movies with me, creating the illusion of productivity while enjoying some entertainment. Interestingly, my analyst co-worker took a different approach and would simply fall asleep after lunch. Ah, the memories of those laid-back moments in the workplace – good times indeed.

While success as a trader remained elusive, my persistence in the field for an extended period was recognized. This recognition prompted me to explore online avenues as a means to potentially make money on the side. Diving into the realms of marketing and website development became a new focus, opening up opportunities to leverage my skills in different ways. It was a shift in strategy, exploring diverse paths to find success beyond traditional trading avenues

Reflecting on the good old days, it's essential to acknowledge the technological landscape of the early 2000s, which was markedly different from today's advanced systems. Computers back then had their own quirks and limitations, making every accomplishment a testament to perseverance and adaptability.The analogy of tying an elephant to a tree, watching it struggle, and eventually realizing it can break free but choosing to stay even when the rope is cut is a poignant reminder of the gradual changes and growth that occur over time. Just as technology has evolved, so have our abilities to navigate challenges and embrace new possibilities.

Navigating between jobs in a fluctuating market can undoubtedly be a challenging journey. Despite the favorable market conditions, finding solid footing has been an ongoing struggle, and success as a trader remains elusive. It's not uncommon for the path to financial success in trading to be fraught with challenges. The market's unpredictability coupled with personal transitions can create a demanding environment. It's a testament to your resilience that, despite the hurdles, you persist in the pursuit of success. Keep pressing forward, and may the future bring the breakthrough you've been working towards in your trading journey.

I find myself still in the midst of building strategies and navigating the world of option trades. Along the way, someone named Mark Douglas stepped into the picture, and I started absorbing his insights through YouTube. What struck me was that he delved into the emotional side of trading, a facet I thought I had already conquered. However, his focus on risk management was spot on and added a new layer to my understanding. It's a continuous learning process, and the combination of strategy development, successful option trades, and the wisdom shared by experienced traders like Mark Douglas keeps shaping my journey. Here's to further growth and success in the dynamic realm of trading.

Entering what seemed like a sweet spot, I started a new job and was getting back into the swing of things. Suddenly, bam, I got hacked, and overnight, my life took a nosedive. In a whirlwind of events, it took the IT guy two weeks and a staggering 147 passwords later to resolve the issue.Amidst this chaos, a silver lining emerged. I found myself delving into the world of developing mechanical trading strategies. The experience, though challenging, became a catalyst for change. It shifted the trajectory of my trading journey, introducing a new dimension that altered my approach and opened up fresh possibilities. Sometimes, it takes adversity to unearth hidden potentials and transform setbacks into opportunities.

As the new year unfolds, I'm gearing up to add more to my trading journey monthly. The start has been slow, but the silver lining is the mechanical approach to trading that I've embraced. This approach provides the freedom necessary for success, offering a structured and systematic way to navigate the complexities of the market. Here's to a year of growth, learning, and further success in the realm of trading.