4 Stages of Trading Tilt: Catch It Before You Blow Up
The 4 Stages of Trading Tilt
Tilt isn’t an on/off switch. It’s a progression.
Stage 1: The Trigger
Something goes wrong. An unexpected stop-out. At Stage 1, you’re still rational. Circuit breaker: Pause 90 seconds after any unexpected loss.
Stage 2: The Simmer
Frustration builds quietly. Your criteria loosen. Circuit breaker: Rate every setup A/B/C. Two consecutive B or lower? Stop for the session.
Stage 3: The Escalation
Fully tilted. Sizing up. Moving stops. This is where accounts blow up. Circuit breaker: Drawdown Throttle. Down 2%? Size cuts. Down 3%? Done.
Stage 4: The Aftermath
Guilt, shame, self-criticism. Circuit breaker: Post-session debrief. Diagnose, don’t judge.
Emergency Protocol
Stop. Close all positions. Close the platform. Leave the room.
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