The lotus flower begins its life as a pod in a pond or marsh. It sends down roots and pushes its way up through the murky depths. When it finally reaches the surface, it unfurls its petals, its colours shimmering in the sunlight.
Just as the lotus must push through the muddy darkness to display its beauty, we too must endure challenges to grow and flourish.
It’s hard to recognise the sunlight above us when we’re stuck in the mud. But it’s there—waiting to nourish us if we persist.
In trading, growth often begins in these murky depths of struggle. Drawdowns, mistakes, and moments of doubt can feel overwhelming, but they’re also where your resilience takes root. These difficult periods aren’t failures—they’re the foundation of your success.
When losses pile up or the markets feel unforgiving, it’s natural to feel defeated. But like the sunlight above the water, clarity and success are closer than they seem. Every struggle is a lesson waiting to nourish you if you stay the course. When we face our suffering with hope—without letting pain break us—we remember that difficulty is an inextricable part of this journey. Adversity brings growth, wisdom, and eventually, joy.
As the Roman poet Ovid said: “Be patient and tough; one day this pain will be useful to you.”
The mistakes, sleepless nights, and frustration you feel now are teaching you invaluable lessons about yourself and the markets. These are your stepping stones to greatness—if you have the courage to embrace them.
I know it’s hard to move through suffering with grace and courage.
I get it.
But when we try to evade suffering, we only prolong and intensify it. What you’re feeling is natural. Instead of running from it, learn to sit with your pain. Hold it tenderly. Feel it.
By doing so, you’ll discover that drawdowns, like the mud, are opportunities for transformation. They help you evolve into a trader who flourishes under pressure. Your pain, your setbacks, and even your failures are all part of the journey to trading mastery.
No Mud, No Lotus.
No Drawdowns, No Growth.
Louise Bedford (www.tradinggame.com.au) is a full-time private trader and author of The Secret of Writing Options, The Secret of Candlestick Charting, Charting Secrets, Trading Secrets and Let The Trade Wins Flow. Her new book is Investing Psychology Secrets. Pick up her free trading plan template from her website. You can hear more from Louise on her free weekly podcast called Talking Trading. Her Mind Over Markets segment on the TradeDelicious Youtube channel is a hit with traders and will give you clarity so you can slay it in the markets.