The Power of Simplicity: Why a Successful Options Trading Strategy Should Be as Mechanical as Possible

In options trading, some traders may feel drawn to complex strategies that appear impressive and promise to outperform the market.

The truth is that keeping things straightforward often leads to better consistency and habits.

After exploring countless strategies, I’ve found that the only ones I can consistently stick to are the simpler ones that aren’t overly complicated. One example of such strategies is the Wheel Strategy. 

Let’s break down why a simple, easy-to-follow strategy can be the key to long-term.

1. Simplicity Drives Habits Formation

One of the most important elements of successful options trading is forming habits that you can stick to.

When a strategy is simple, it’s easier to follow without feeling overwhelmed.

Think of a basic strategy like selling put credit spreads with predefined entry and exit rules. The simplicity reduces decision fatigue, which is one of the biggest hurdles traders face.

When you’re not bogged down by complicated rules, you can focus on executing your strategy more consistently.

Over time, following these straightforward steps becomes a habit, much like brushing your teeth or exercising.

You no longer have to consciously think about every action—you just do it. This is a powerful advantage because once your brain operates on autopilot, it frees up mental space to think about broader market conditions and long-term goals.

2. Mechanical Strategies Reduce Emotional Decisions

Complex strategies often require traders to meet a long list of criteria before making a move.

This can lead to second-guessing and hesitation. Should you wait for a specific market signal, or should you account for a broader macroeconomic trend?

When there are too many factors to consider, emotional decisions can creep in, leading to overtrading or making poor adjustments.

Mechanical strategies, on the other hand, involve predefined rules that you follow without hesitation.

For example, in a mechanical system put credit spread system, you might always sell a spread 45 days to expiration and exit at 50% profit. You don’t deviate from the rules.

By eliminating subjective judgment calls, you reduce the likelihood of emotional decision-making, which can be a major source of trading mistakes.

3. Consistency Is Key

Simple strategies lead to better consistency, and consistency is essential in trading.

A trader who sticks to a basic, mechanical strategy is more likely to stay the course during both good and bad markets.

Complex strategies, with their myriad criteria, can be difficult to maintain, especially during volatile periods.

The more consistent your strategy, the easier it is to evaluate its performance and make necessary adjustments.

If you’re constantly changing your criteria or tweaking your approach because of emotional or discretionary decisions, it becomes much harder to measure success over time.