Secret Agent vs. Trader

So my sister's wedding was this past weekend (she made the most beautiful bride ever!) and, being one of the groomsmen, I rented a tuxedo. One of the co-workers from my night job happens to be in design school for photography. Tuxedo...Photography. Was it even a question as to whether or not I do a James Bond photo shoot?



Yeah, I'm a pretty big fan. You know it's bad when I commited to 6am for the shoot- the morning after the bachelor party! The more I thought about what my next post would be (while waiting for MAXY to tank), the more clear my answer got- Compare the similarities of the world's best spies to the world's best stock traders:

1. TRAINING

In order to be the best at something, you have to be willing to make whatever sacrifices necessary- especially in the beginning. For undercover operatives, as well as all branches of the military, this starts with boot camp. Strict workout regimen, diet, and mental training begin to shape the individual into a soldier fit for battle (though the battle has not yet begun). With traders, this begins by watching the markets, reading as much material as your brain can handle (which isn't much at first when it comes to finance books), and paper trading.

2. DISCIPLINE

Without discipline, it is impossible to succeed long-term. As a spy, lack of discipline and focus could mean your life. As a trader, without discipline you may as well blend your money into a smoothie- jumping in and out of trades due to boredom or 'gut-feelings' is the quickest way to financial ruin.

3. STYLE

That's right- Style! James Bond has that certain 'something' that makes him unique. He's charming, British, likes his drinks a certain way, and loves to say his last name first. His style is evident within five seconds of coming across one of his 22 movies while channel surfing (Well 21 since Quantum of Solace isn't on t.v. yet). As a trader, you have to find that certain 'something' (most often referred to as a 'niche' trading style) that works for you (ie. is consistently profitable). Maybe your great at trading day-rangers like Muddy or shorting hyped penny stocks like Timmay. All I know from about a decade of trading (which spans countless profits and losses) is that your style is just that- yours. Simply following others' trades isn't going to cut it longterm.

Enjoy the weekend,

Dawson...Evan Dawson.