If you're new to futures trading, there’s one key principle you need to grasp early on: never risk your entire margin on a single trade. This common mistake often leads to liquidation and significant losses. The golden rule for long-term success in futures trading is straightforward: limit your risk to no more than 1% of your total account balance per trade. By adhering to this, you minimize the chance of liquidation while maintaining a sustainable approach to leverage.

Personally, I started with just $150 in my trading account and followed this principle religiously. By capping my risk at 1% per trade and using leverage strategically, I’ve grown my account to $365 over time. While the growth may not seem dramatic, it’s achieved with low risk and minimal stress. Remember, the focus should be on steady account growth rather than chasing quick, high-risk returns. Proper risk management is the foundation of successful trading—protect your capital, and let it grow consistently over time.