Rules are more decisive than luck in determining success or failure; disciplined actions surpass any market predictions.

Four months ago, I entered this industry with $1,500. Today, my account comfortably holds $45,000. There were no rollercoaster-style contract liquidations, nor leveraged operations driven by gambler's mentality—only the execution of a systematic set of rules.

This experience taught me a truth: in the crypto world, the deadly factor isn't information asymmetry, but those obvious yet overlooked fundamental principles. Today, I want to share the pitfalls I've encountered and the strategies I've found.

**First Red Line: Never invest money you can't afford to lose**

I've seen too many people lose everything within less than a month of entering. What do they have in common? They're all too impatient.

The crypto space is never a casino; it's an ecosystem full of opportunities and risks. The first ironclad rule is to only use spare funds that you can completely afford to lose. The initial $1,500 I started with is gone, but it didn't affect my normal life. This psychological bottom line is crucial—it helps you stay rational during market panic and prevents forced liquidation.

When choosing a platform, don't just look at fees. I selected a few top exchanges for simple reasons: they have experienced enough market cycles, platform risks are relatively controllable, and they won't suddenly vanish. The biggest fear for beginners is their funds disappearing due to platform跑路.

**Second Rule: Only buy coins you can sleep peacefully with**

In my asset allocation, Bitcoin and Ethereum account for 70%. This means I might miss out on some small coins' tenfold or hundredfold gains. But more importantly, I avoid the nightmare of projects that can zero out instantly.

Many beginners are captivated by stories of "hundredfold coins," but the reality is: most small coins in the crypto world hide schemes to harvest retail investors. When they fall, going to zero is common. The key is to avoid things you don't understand. Bitcoin and Ethereum are the "safe assets" that beginners should hold tightly.

**Third Principle: Capital management determines life or death**

After protecting the principal and choosing the right coins, the real test is capital management. This part tests human nature the most because it requires discipline to resist greed.