During times of stress, people desperately search for validation

In times of market instability, traders often feel anxious and tend to lean on others' opinions. Particularly during sharp spikes in the VIX or central bank surprises, traders seek reassurance by scrolling through social media for reliable analysts. This behavior stems from the psychological need for cognitive closure, where increasing uncertainty leads traders to look for affirmations of their own views rather than conducting thorough analyses themselves. This reliance is dangerous as it can hinder their long-term growth by depriving them of the chance to cultivate their own market intuition. Thus, building one's analytical skills during calm market conditions is essential. When stress mounts, having a solid foundation allows traders to maintain composure and trust their own processes instead of succumbing to the temptations of borrowed conviction. Recognizing this pattern of seeking validation is crucial; the next time fear grips the markets, pausing to reflect on personal analyses rather than succumbing to others' confident calls is vital. By doing so, traders can develop the genuine conviction that will serve them well in the uncertain waters of future trading.