“Ignore the money and focus on the trade”

Many traders focus too much on the money they can make or lose in their quest for the highest possible return. In doing so, they put unnecessary pressure on themselves, especially when trying to trade a larger account. It's crucial to focus on your trades, adhere to your strategy, and maintain strict risk management. Avoid getting distracted by the figures displayed on the platform. Even our new FTMO Traders understand the importance of this mindset.

Trader Jiří: “Focus on the process rather than just the results.”

What was easier than expected during the FTMO Challenge or Verification?

During the challenge and the subsequent verification, I thought I would feel more pressure. However, I managed to handle it well, and overall, the FTMO Challenge was completed faster than I could have ever hoped.

Describe your best trade.

My best trade was on Bitcoin, where I correctly identified a liquidity zone and entered at a strong support level. Thanks to patience, the trade developed into my biggest profit during the Challenge.

What do you think is the key for long term success in trading?

I believe long-term success in trading lies in a combination of proper risk management, discipline, and the ability to adapt to market conditions. It’s also important to focus on the process rather than just the results. That being said, I still have a lot to work on in all of these areas.

How did passing the FTMO Challenge and Verification change your life?

Completing the verification has opened the door for me to trade with larger capital and the opportunity to further develop my skills and knowledge in trading.

Do you have a trading plan in place, and do you follow it strictly?

That’s what I’m trying to work on the most, and I believe I’m gradually figuring out exactly where I want to go. I would like to focus primarily on consistency.

What would you like to say to other traders that are attempting the FTMO Challenge?

Anyway, I’m really glad that I chose FTMO, and I would highly recommend everyone to give the Challenge a try. For those who are already going through the Challenge, I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you—I hope you succeed just like I did!

Trader Raneem Wael Aref: “Discipline is the most important attribute.”

How did you eliminate the factor of luck in your trading?

I eliminated luck by developing a solid trading plan based on risk management, technical and fundamental analysis, and backtesting strategies. I also maintain consistency by following strict rules for entries, exits, and stop-loss placements.

What do you think is the most important characteristic/attribute to become a profitable trader?

Discipline is the most important attribute. Traders must stick to their strategy, manage emotions, and avoid impulsive decisions to maintain long-term profitability.

How did loss limits affect your trading style?

Maximum loss limits helped me refine my risk management strategy by ensuring I never over-leverage or risk more than a set percentage of my capital. It also taught me patience and the importance of high-probability setups.

Describe your best trade.

My best trade was when I executed a well-planned setup based on technical and fundamental confluence. I identified a strong trend, set my risk-reward ratio properly, and followed my strategy without emotional interference. The trade played out exactly as analyzed, leading to a significant profit while maintaining my predefined risk.

What inspires you to pursue trading?

The freedom and financial independence that trading offers inspire me. I enjoy the challenge of analyzing markets, making calculated decisions, and continuously improving my skills.

What would you like to say to other traders that are attempting the FTMO Challenge?

Stay disciplined, follow your strategy, and manage your risk properly. The FTMO Challenge is designed to test your consistency, so avoid emotional trading and focus on executing well-thought-out trades.

Trader Matei-Tudor: “Set and forget.”

Do you have a trading plan in place, and do you follow it strictly?

All of my trades are respecting a strict plan and strategy I developed, which I improve every single day.

How did passing the FTMO Challenge and Verification change your life?

It didn't change my life. Once I start getting profits and payouts that's when everything is going to change. I'm still in high school and I want to fund myself.

How did you eliminate the factor of luck in your trading?

Researched hundreds of hours how the market moves, developed a comprehensive strategy that I respect strictly. I believe I create my own luck by being present on the charts every single day and being prepared to take an opportunity when it shows up.

How did loss limits affect your trading style?

It didn't. I believe my trading style is profitable, and I have confidence in myself that I am profitable.

Describe your best trade.

My last trade on the verification step. I was in DD because I couldn't really focus 100% on the charts because I either am at high school or job. I had a free hour at high school, took a quick glimpse at fundamentals, saw an opportunity on gold, and I took it. It not only helped me get out of DD, but also complete the profit target, even surpassing it.

What is the number one advice you would give to a new trader?

Set and forget.

Trader Lee: “Ignore the money and focus on the trade.”

What does your risk management plan look like?

During the FTMO Challenge and evaluation phase, the risk management plan was according to FTMO's rule, i.e., max. daily loss <5%. Upon reaching the funded trader phase, I plan to have stricter rules to risk 0.5%-1% per trade and max. 2% per day.

What was more difficult than expected during your FTMO Challenge or Verification?

Psychological part, such as pressure to pass quickly, revenge/over trading after a loss.

How did loss limits affect your trading style?

It actually helps to discipline myself, without this I may have lost more money in a single day and be unable to recover later. Nevertheless, from the psychological side, there is extra pressure when seeing the account closer to the max loss limit during drawdown.

Do you have a trading plan in place, and do you follow it strictly?

Yes. What I've learnt during the FTMO Challenge and Verification phase is following the plan strictly is the only way to overcome those psychological challenges and be sustainable in longer term.

How would you rate your experience with FTMO?

Best in the industry with various choice of trading assets, good trading conditions, and fair rules.

One piece of advice for people starting the FTMO Challenge now.

Ignore the money and focus on the trade.