Size cuts feel like surrender. Often they are how accounts survive long enough to matter.
Triggers that deserve a cut
Sleep debt, illness, travel, platform issues, unfamiliar symbols, or a streak of rule-breaks. These are operational risks, not badges of toughness.
Event proximity
Into FOMC or CPI, cutting size is often wiser than inventing a clever hedge you do not usually trade.
After a windfall
Large unexpected gains tempt oversized next trades. Reset to baseline size until emotions settle. Protecting the gift is part of risk management.
Make the cut mechanical
Pre-write: “If X, size = half.” Negotiating with yourself mid-session is how half never happens.