A sluggish start on Monday. A rushed prep on Tuesday. And a not-so-great trade to kick off Wednesday.

That pretty much sums up the first half of my trading week.

But this post isn’t about the trades. It’s about something else that’s become part of the rhythm.

I started running again.

Nothing fancy. Just a short loop around the neighborhood before the charts light up. No headphones. Just the road, breath, and a stubborn mind waking up.

Some mornings, I feel sharp. Legs light, pace smooth. Other days, I drag my feet through every step, wondering why I even bother.

And yet, I always feel better after. Not because it was easy, but because I showed up. Again.

That’s when it hit me. Running is a lot like trading the first setup of the day.

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The first trade rarely feels perfect.

Sometimes it comes early while the market’s still sleepy. Sometimes it comes late after you’ve doubted half your prep.

Some trades move well. Others stall out or stop you just when you thought you nailed it.

But the point isn’t to be perfect.

The point is to stay in rhythm. To trust the routine, not the outcome.

I’ve had mornings where the run was slow and the first trade was a loser.

But by mid-session, I’m focused. I’ve shaken off the rust. I’m in it.

Same reason I lace up the shoes, even when I don’t feel like it.

It’s not about motivation.

It’s about movement.

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So if your first trade feels clumsy or your prep feels off, it’s fine.

Just start.

The momentum shows up after.

Now if you’ll excuse me, the road’s waiting. So is the chart.

And both reward those who show up.