How to Survive the Top and Still Win the Cycle

I’ve seen it happen every cycle: People make life-changing gains, then give it all back trying to squeeze out that last 20%.

I’ve done it too. Held too long and watched the gains vanish.

This time, I’m doing it differently. Here’s my playbook when the market feels near the top 👇🏻

[1] Take Profits Early

If your bags are up 3x, 5x, 10x → start selling. Don’t wait for the absolute top. Cash is underrated when everyone else is euphoric.

[2] Reduce Overall Exposure

As risk goes up, I pull capital out. Not fully out of the game, just not overexposed. I'd rather miss a bit of upside than ride the full downside.

[3] Keep a Small High-Risk Stack

I still want upside but I size it like a lottery ticket. A few bold bets with asymmetric payoff, while the rest is already safe.

[4] Don’t Re-enter Too Soon

I’ve learned this the hard way: once I exit, I stay out. No FOMO, no revenge trades. Most of the damage happens trying to chase “one last pump.”

[5] Wait for the Reset

Markets always reset. If I’ve kept my capital intact, I’ll be ready to buy when everyone else is panicking. That’s where the real wealth is built.

📌 Simple rule I follow now:

Be aggressive when others are scared. Be cautious when everyone’s partying.

Bull markets don’t end with warnings they end with greed.

So I cash out early, keep a sniper’s mindset, and make sure I’m still here for the next cycle.