The Tiny Goals Framework for Traders
Building Consistent Trading Habits with Small Steps
As if the election wasn’t enough, we’ve got the Fed meeting later today…
No predictions from me. In fact, I want to leave all that noise behind us and get back to our mission.
1% better each day.
Ok, let’s start with the tiny goal trick…
TINY GOALS
Often in trading, the big goals can seem so far away, almost unreachable.
You look at where you are now and think “I don’t actually see a realistic path to get there”
That’s ok…
I believe that the path starts to illuminate as you move forward. But you need to keep moving.
This is where tiny, focused goals come in.
Each day, work on one small thing.
Trying to fix everything in your trading often means fixing nothing.
Here’s a helpful framework to keep it simple:
FRAMEWORk
#1 Set super clear goals… like “wait for my confirmation before entering” to keep yourself focused.
When goals are precise, you know exactly what to do and can focus all your energy there… none of that vague “improve entries” stuff.
#2 Stick to process-based goals like “follow my risk management on each trade”… the results will follow.
Focus on actions within your control, like sticking to a plan, because process is king in trading… results show up when the process is rock solid.
#3 Use tiny goals to build solid habits… for example, “note down why I’m taking this trade” creates clarity.
Think of it as laying bricks, these tiny goals add up to core trading habits like staying mindful and being crystal clear on each trade.
#4 Tiny examples: “identify 3 setups pre-market”, “pause 10 secs before each trade”, “log 1 lesson aftermarket.”
These small steps build consistency into your day; pre-market setups, a quick mental check-in before a trade, and a post-market review keep you grounded and sharp.
#5 Look back each week… missed a goal? Break it down even smaller, like “wait for one candle close” first.
A quick weekly review lets you adjust and spot any patterns. If a goal felt tough, make it even easier to hit next week by narrowing it down.
#6 Start easy and build from there… once you build a small habit, layer another on top.
Once a tiny goal feels routine, raise the bar just a bit, get consistent with one and then add another.
Tiny goals let you focus on the next small step… and a few small wins every day add up to decent growth.
Work out what your tiny goals are and build from there.