Day trading is a challenging and risky financial activity. It requires swift decisions, prompt actions, and a keen eye for market trends. However, when executed rightly, it can offer lucrative rewards.

Day trading entails the process of purchasing and selling financial assets - like stocks, currencies, or commodities - all within the confines of one trading day. This means positions are usually opened and closed within a single session. It's a strategy usually employed by experienced traders given its high-risk nature.

The essence of day trading focuses on capitalizing on market volatility. By leveraging these intra-day price fluctuations, traders aim for small, consistent profits which, when accumulated, could lead to a hefty sum.

Success in day trading hinges on having a concrete, executable plan. This plan ideally encompasses technical analysis, efficient risk management, and the mental fortitude to handle the stress. Technical analysis, a key component of the strategy, employs graphs and other analytical tools to discern patterns which could foresee future price trends. Risk management, on the other hand, involves setting up safeguards against potential losses.

Psychology plays a significant role in day trading. Impulse and fear-induced decisions are common pitfalls that can lead to substantial losses. Therefore, maintaining discipline and sticking to the trading plan is crucial for success.

It remains paramount to understand that day trading is not for everyone. Its risky nature and the required technical expertise can be overwhelming for novice traders. Without proper knowledge and understanding of financial markets, technical analysis, and risk management, diving into day trading might be a dangerous endeavor.

While day trading can be profitable, it also comes with potentially severe losses. Sound knowledge, proper planning, and discipline are the pillars of successful day trading. Hence, approaching day trading with the level of seriousness and respect it demands is vital.

Despite the risks, day trading can be a rewarding endeavor for those who do their due diligence and are willing to put in the work.

In conclusion, day trading is a risky but potentially lucrative financial activity. Successful day trading demands a comprehensive understanding of market trends and the mental capacity to withstand the stress of quick-fire trading decisions. In the end, day trading is not for those searching for quick day trading financial gains, but for individuals who have the patience and discipline to skillfully navigate the choppy seas of the financial market.