When is the right time to quit a full-time job and trade for a living?

I've only worked full-time as a trader for about three months, so I'm not really that eligible to answer. My thought is that you should prove yourself for at least two years, covering great and bad conditions, preferably uptrends, sideways markets, and downtrends. You need consistent performance in different market conditions. Your trading gains should be at least greater than your job income, perhaps double or even triple, because trading returns are volatile and unstable. You may earn a lot when the market is favorable and then start losing when it is not, so you need a financial cushion.

Source: Don’t worry be happy | 6 Aug 2026