Tips of the Game (Part 1)

People often ask me to summarize my previous write-ups or put together a Substack, but I rarely have the time for that. Instead, I’ve decided to compile, generalize, and condense some of the ideas I’ve written about into digestible pieces.

1) Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes the best move is no move at all. If the setup isn’t right or the market feels off, stepping back can save you from unnecessary losses. There’s always another opportunity.

2) Take Profits and Cash Out Strategically
Lock in gains when the opportunity arises, and don’t hesitate to convert to fiat when needed. Securing value provides liquidity and optionality - this helps keep your mindset calm and focused.

3) Play Your Own Game
Stick to your own style and strategy. Avoid being swayed by others’ decisions or narratives - they have their own goals, not yours.

4) Always Be Learning
Markets evolve, and staying informed is non-negotiable. Study, analyze, and adapt.

5) Reflect on Every Move
Pain + Reflection = Progress. But it’s equally important to analyze your wins - was it blind luck, or was it your skill? Without this, you risk confusing correlation for causation and repeating the same mistakes disguised as success.

6) Stay Open to New Ideas
The best opportunities often come from fresh perspectives. Don’t dismiss concepts just because they challenge your current thinking or differ from what you’re used to. Embrace the unfamiliar - it’s where growth happens.

7) Hold Strong Opinions, But Weakly
Conviction is essential, but don’t let ego stop you from changing your mind when presented with new evidence. Cut your losses quickly, and be ready to re-enter just as quickly if the setup improves. Flexibility is key.

8) Don’t Trade Out of Boredom
Bored trades are often forced trades. Wait for quality opportunities that align with your edge.

9) Build Conviction in Your Plays
Research thoroughly and understand your trades. Confidence comes from preparation, not hope.

10) Be Aggressive Early in Trends
The start of a trend is where asymmetrical opportunities exist. Seize them before the crowd catches on.

11) Adopt Tactical Optimism Near the Trend’s End
As trends mature, be cautiously optimistic and focus on managing risk.

12) Stay Agile and Open to Discourse
Flexibility in thinking and openness to diverse opinions will keep you ahead of the curve.

13) Believe in Yourself
"The man who thinks he can and the man who thinks he can’t are both right." Self-belief is foundational.

14) Don’t Make Excuses
Take responsibility for outcomes. Excuses stall growth; accountability accelerates it.

15) Audit Your Inner Circle
Surround yourself with people who challenge your views constructively. Avoid echo chambers that reinforce biases.

16) Simpler Explanations Are Often Best
In complex environments, the simplest explanation is usually the most effective starting point.

17) Prepare for the Unexpected
Markets are unpredictable. Always consider scenarios that challenge the consensus.

18) Always Analyze the Incentives
Understanding incentives often reveals the likely outcomes. Look beyond the surface to identify what drives people’s decisions and actions - it’s the key to predicting behavior and market moves.

19) Balance Patience and Action
Know when to wait and when to act decisively. Both are critical for long-term success.

20) Manage Your Emotions
Keep fear and greed in check. Emotional decisions often lead to mistakes - stay calm, stick to your plan, and trust your process.