After eight years of trading cryptocurrencies, to be honest, I was almost battered by the market in the first three years, losing 70% of my principal.
That was a bloody lesson.
Later, I slowly figured out some rules to survive; I can't say it's foolproof, but at least it helps avoid a lot of detours.
The biggest common problem for retail investors is doing the opposite: holding on when losing and running away as soon as they make a profit. In fact, you should do the opposite: have the courage to let go of the profits you earn, and decisively cut losses when it hits the stop-loss level.
Don't underestimate this point; just the discipline of 'locking in profits at 10% and stopping losses at 5%' can help you avoid countless pitfalls.
Now let's talk about volume. In the market, trading volume is a signal: if the volume shrinks while reaching new highs, there's often more momentum; if it breaks the 20-day line and then retreats on lower volume, it's basically a money-making opportunity.
When trading, don't be greedy; focus on no more than two or three mainstream coins at a time. Don't stuff yourself with seven or eight at once, or you'll lose control and end up dying faster.
The intraday rhythm also has its traces to follow: don't panic during sharp declines; rebounds usually follow; be cautious with explosive moves at the end of the day, as they often lead to a drop the next day.
Remember a few phrases: a shrinking volume rise can still increase, be careful when there's high volume without price increase, and massive rapid rises usually lead to corrections. The logic of the market is much clearer than you think.
Trends are always the core. Don't try to predict; just follow. For short-term trades, focus on the 5-day line, and for a slightly longer view, look at the 20-day line; if it breaks, get out, don't linger. A strong coin being hit once or twice doesn’t mean it’s the end, as long as the popularity remains and the turnover is sufficient, it often can rebound. If you're going to play, play this kind of high-reward situation.
The most crucial point is that after a big profit, you must rest with an empty position. The market is best at harvesting those who have just become euphoric. I've experienced it too many times; after making a fortune, I ended up giving it all back. Similarly, when losing, don't make reckless trades; calm down first, and wait for the market to warm up before jumping back in.
Ultimately, trading cryptocurrencies isn't about a moment but about endurance. Endure your mentality, endure your understanding, endure your execution. Opportunities are always there, in both bull and bear markets, but whether you can survive depends on whether you can truly stick to your discipline.
It took me eight years to understand that trading cryptocurrencies isn't hard; the hard part is controlling yourself. Remember, the market never disappoints those who are patient.
If you are unfamiliar with certain coins or need analytical insights, feel free to reach out to me; I will help clarify the path.