I Am Memory Game

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are all the cards “I Am” statements?

“I Am” statements are the most powerful form of self-talk because they address identity rather than just behavior. If you believe “I am a disciplined trader,” your actions will naturally align with that belief. We use this phrasing to help you shift your internal self-image from someone who “tries to trade” to someone who “is a trader.”

Is there actual science behind this, or is it just positive thinking?

This tool leverages the concept of neuroplasticity. Your brain physically changes based on what you repeatedly focus on. By engaging in a spatial memory task while vocalizing positive affirmations, you are actively strengthening the neural pathways associated with discipline and suppressing the pathways associated with fear.

Is this game just for beginners?

No. While beginners use it to learn proper mindset habits, intermediate and advanced traders use it to maintain them. Even veteran traders experience fear, greed, and stress. The difference is that professionals have rituals to manage those emotions. This game provides a structured ritual for traders at every level.

Is this helpful for paper trading/demo traders?

Yes. The biggest drawback of paper trading is the lack of emotional pressure. Using this game during your demo phase instills good psychological habits early, so you don’t have to “unlearn” bad emotional habits when you switch to real money.

How does this compare to traditional meditation?

Meditation is passive; this game is active. For traders who struggle to “sit still and clear their mind,” this game offers a focused task that achieves a similar result: quieting the noise. It engages your executive function (the logical brain), which helps dampen the emotional centers (the amygdala) that cause panic.

Why do I need to say the words out loud?

Vocalizing the affirmations engages multiple senses (sight, speech, and hearing), which deepens the neural imprint of the message. When you speak a statement like “I am patient” aloud, you are making a verbal commitment to yourself, making it much harder to break that promise when the market opens.

What if I don’t believe the “I Am” affirmations yet?

It is normal to feel resistance to positive statements if you have been struggling recently. However, psychological research shows that repetition can rewire cognitive pathways even if you don’t fully believe the statement at first. Play the game regardless of your mood. You are training your subconscious to accept a new identity as a consistent trader.

Can I play this while I am in a trade?

We generally recommend playing this before you enter or after you exit. Once you are in a trade, your job is to monitor your setup and execute your management plan. However, if you are in a long-duration trade and feel anxiety rising, playing a quick round can help center you, provided it does not distract you from critical price action.

How do I know if it’s working?

You won’t necessarily feel a “lightning bolt” moment. Instead, you’ll notice small shifts: you hesitate less, you don’t get as angry after a loss, or you find it easier to walk away when your session is done. When your internal dialogue becomes kinder and more disciplined, you know the programming is taking hold.