Original author: Crypto, Distilled

Original translation: TechFlow

The bull market is not as simple as you think.

Even if $BTC reaches $ 100, 000 many people will likely see their gains diminishing.

Don't be that investor.

Here are 15 rules to help you maximize your gains during this cycle.

1. Unrealized gains are not gains

This is the most important rule of all.

Set it as your lock screen, put it on the fridge - whatever you do, don't forget about it.

Paper gains are just imaginary values ​​until you actually sell.

(h/t TradeSanta)

2. Avoid using leverage

Altcoins already have enough firepower.

You don't need more volatility to get good returns.

Don't let greed kill your gains.

I've seen a lot of people fail because of alcohol and leverage - leverage is borrowing. In this world, you don't actually need to borrow money. If you're smart, you can make a lot of money without borrowing money. - Warren Buffett

3. Gradually reduce holdings

No one can perfectly time market tops.

Plan to exit within the top third of the cycle.

Accept leaving a portion of your earnings behind to secure your future.

(Example strategy from @denomeme)

4. Be prepared for a dip

It is just as important to consider downside risks as it is to consider upside potential.

Optimize your strategy to ensure you can withstand the worst-case scenario.

Opportunities for generational wealth are rare. Live long enough to seize them.

5. Look for asymmetric investments

Not all opportunities are created equal.

Don't let rising prices lure you into a bad risk/reward position.

The "upside potential" should always be greater than the "downside risk".

(via @ssaurel)

6. When in doubt, take the long view

Don't get lost in the hype. Take a step back and think about the long term.

Is the multi-year trend more likely to continue or reverse?

In the next 6 months+, will there be more liquidity flowing in or out of the market? Why?

7. Be selective in your investments

Altcoin dilution has reached unprecedented levels.

You don’t need to chase those shiny coins.

Most altcoins go to zero after the cycle ends – be very picky.

8. Keep your strategy simple

Complexity does not equal success.

Complex plans often fall apart when markets heat up.

Narrow your focus and keep it simple.

9. Be a big fish in a small pond

There are dozens of sectors in the crypto industry.

It is impossible to be an expert in every field.

Focus on your own field and master a few market segments.

10. Without your private key, you have no cryptocurrency

Unfortunately, many people learn this simple truth the hard way.

Even the “best” traders can lose their savings due to security negligence.

Develop good wallet usage habits. Diversify your assets into multiple wallets or centralized exchanges (CEX).

11. Bet on the leaders

Retail investors are keen on playing the “catch-up game”.

In the long run, it's almost always a losing battle. The winners always go on to win.

(h/t Tapan Desai)

12. Be a team player

Remember, your network is your net worth.

Don't be a lone wolf, you will earn less.

Hang out with other savvy investors and crypto fans.

13. Comparing altcoins to BTC

Focusing solely on the USD valuation of altcoins is a mistake.

Instead, analyze the ALT/BTC trading pair.

If your active portfolio is not outperforming BTC, re-evaluate your strategy.

14. The trend is your friend

In a strong trend, it is best to follow the trend.

It only makes sense to invest against the trend at macro turning points.

Otherwise, you will be trampled by the crowd (don't quit midway).

15. Don’t get too hung up on your highest net worth

The market doesn't care about your profits or losses.

Being too persistent will only cloud your judgment.

Seize opportunities and accept losses calmly.

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