Trend and Momentum
Trading Models

The end of the year carries a strange energy.

There’s pressure to reset, improve, and somehow fix everything all at once – usually while tired, distracted, and half-switched off. That’s rarely productive.

Real preparation isn’t about dramatic goals or bold promises. It’s about clearing mental clutter, tightening systems, and giving yourself a clean runway into January – without turning it into a performance.

Reflection First, Not Self-Criticism

Before looking forward, you have to look back – calmly and honestly.
Not just at profit and loss, but at process.

Ask simple questions:

  • What worked consistently?

  • What clearly didn’t?

  • What felt natural?

  • What felt forced?

A powerful way to do this is the 3 best / 3 worst approach. Identify your three strongest periods or trades, and your three weakest. Improve what already works. Reduce what clearly hurts. The middle usually takes care of itself.

This isn’t about judgement – it’s about clarity.

Fix the System

Many traders label everything as a discipline problem when it’s actually a system issue.
Late alerts, too many markets, unclear triggers, or unrealistic time windows will create “mistakes” no matter how motivated you are.

If something didn’t work this year, ask:

  • Could the process be cleaner?

  • Could the rules be simpler?

  • Could the environment be better suited to how I actually live?

Systems are adjustable. Beating yourself up isn’t.

Think in Themes

Targets feel motivating for a short time. Habits compound all year.

Instead of chasing ten vague goals, choose one or two themes that raise your standards:

  • Discipline

  • Patience

  • Trade selection

  • Execution quality

  • Calm decision-making

Then work backwards.
What would that theme look like in behaviour?
Fewer trades? Earlier exits? Walking away sooner? Clearer “no trade” rules?

Themes guide decisions. Habits make them real.

Final Thoughts: Clearer, Calmer, More Intentional

The goal for the year ahead isn’t to be smarter or more aggressive.
It’s to be clearer. Calmer. More intentional.

You don’t need to start perfectly.
You don’t need to make money immediately.
You just need a clean structure, realistic expectations, and the confidence to let good trades work.

That’s how progress compounds – quietly, steadily, and sustainably.