Elite Trading Mindset: Lessons from a Paralympic Champion

Why do some traders stay steady while others unravel under pressure? It often comes down to mindset. And who better to teach us about resilience than a Paralympic medalist?

Louise Bedford once said inspiration needs three things: it has to touch your core, push your boundaries, and motivate you with positivity. Enter Don Elgin, a Paralympic legend whose story offers vital lessons for both life and trading.

Don Elgin was born without the lower half of his left leg. Instead of seeing it as a defeat, he saw it as an opportunity. His humor and determination became his defining traits.

His book, One Foot on the Podium, beautifully reflects his journey and has even earned an award.

Check out the book here.

Don’s perspective is deeply rooted in struggle. As he puts it, “The reality of waking up every day with no leg is what makes the victories meaningful.”

Don's accomplishments include competing in four World Championships and three Paralympic Games. Beyond sports, he's an in-demand motivational speaker. Visit his website to explore more of his philosophy and expertise.

Feeling stuck? Maybe you aren’t aligned with your purpose. Don emphasizes the importance of discovering your “why.” When you understand what drives you, even the hard days feel manageable.

Ask yourself:

Your “why” aligns your heart and actions, helping things fall into place.

Losses, whether in life or trading, are inevitable. But avoiding those tough emotions robs you of growth. Embracing both the wins and the losses teaches resilience.

Don’s advice? “It doesn’t have to feel good to be valuable. Hard times are part of the process.”

Setbacks can make quitting tempting, but perspective is key. Don recalls a tough training session after his Sydney Paralympic triumph. His coach reminded him of the bigger picture - Athens 2004. Similarly, one bad trade doesn’t define you as a trader. Always zoom out and focus on the long game.

Psychologist Daniel Kahneman’s "fast” and "slow" thinking concepts remind us of the power of taking a step back. Don applies this idea, saying, “We are most powerful between action and reaction.”

Neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor’s 90-second rule offers a practical way to pause. When faced with setbacks (like clicking the wrong order size in a trade), take 90 seconds to breathe and reset.

Don introduces the concept of a "pilot light," the internal spark that keeps you moving forward. Motivation may waver, but the pilot light (a steady inner drive) remains constant.

It’s the difference between starting small and sustaining energy for the larger journey.

Fuel for your pilot light might come from a desire to solve problems, achieve a goal, or overcome adversity. Challenges may dim it temporarily, but as long as it burns, you can keep growing.

Elite athletes know the value of small movements in rehab. These seemingly insignificant actions lead to major achievements over time. As Don puts it, "Small things are critical to big success."

In trading, this could mean sticking to small, consistent actions that build discipline and skill over time.

Don Elgin’s life is a testament to resilience, focus, and purpose. Whether it’s in trading or something else, keep your inner flame alive, embrace setbacks, and take joy in small steps. Success comes from the journey, not just the destination.

For more from Don, visit donelgin.com.au, LinkedIn, or Twitter.