We can all admit that it has been a bit tougher to make the same lifestyle in today’s market versus a few years ago.  I have seen a number of 25 year + veterans decide to cash out and retire just because they “know how hard I need to work to make it in this market and don’t have it in me.” 

I have watched the markets cycle and it is in these markets that the pros gain their biggest market share gains.  The dollars may be harder to come by, but these markets are necessary because it forces us to dig in get good at our skills, work harder and evaluate everything we do. 

What do you look to for strength when the going gets tough?  Why do you do what you do?  What keeps you disciplined enough to go do the things you dislike to get the things you want?