there are Bright traders who trade just the open and do very well, they are out no more then 15 minutes after the opening bell. then you trade the last 20 minutes with the Market on Close too.
Just off the top of my head (some call it "talking out my ass")... and if you're a technical player... 1. A significant number of "setups" occur in the first 20% of the trading day... often very near the opening. 2. A significant number of setups occur in the last 20% of the trading day... often very near the close. 3. A lesser number of setups occur during the middle 60% of the day.
Ok, first hour complete and I know I can't give it back until at least 3:00. I guess I can work out now, do my taxes, etc.. <IMG SRC=http://www.elitetrader.com/vb/attachment.php?s=&postid=2718995>
When I first started trading, I found myself in the same situation. Made good money in the morning, only to give it back and churn commissions. Realized as long as I was in front of the screen, I would click the buttons. So, I made sure I was busy during those times of the day. Scheduled a personal training at the gym 2 hours after the market opened. By the time I worked out, went home for lunch and shower, I didn't get back behind the computer until 1 hour before the close. Gratefully, after trading for 14 years, I am now able to sit in front of the market and not click buttons when there is no action.