Making a small thing right is not called skill; sticking to simple principles and executing them consistently is what makes a true winner.

I know a seasoned crypto enthusiast who, over an investment career of eight or nine years, started with just over 200,000 yuan in capital. Now, her net worth has multiplied hundreds of times. But if you look at her lifestyle, it’s incredibly low-key—ordinary housing, bargaining at the vegetable market. She says this is the real sense of life.

Her success doesn’t rely on news or luck; it’s based on six strict rules. Sharing them here in hopes of helping those still exploring in the crypto world.

**Rule 1: Don’t sell during a decline after a sharp rise; don’t chase rebounds after a plunge**

When prices surge and then start to fall, don’t rush to sell. This is often market manipulation by big players shaking out weak-handed investors. My friend has stuck to this principle many times, holding firm while others cut losses, and eventually waited for subsequent upward moves. Conversely, when a bottom shows a rebound, many get itchy to buy in—most of the time, it’s a trap. That’s the main force gently offloading, making it look like a bargain, but actually pulling you deeper into the trap.

**Rule 2: Watch volume at the top, watch time at the bottom**

High volume at a high price doesn’t necessarily mean you should sell. Large trading volume with rising prices indicates buying interest. The real danger signals are shrinking volume at the top—no more buyers, and a crash is imminent. At the bottom, a single spike in volume doesn’t tell much; it could be the market maker testing waters. The true bottom signal is: sideways consolidation lasting several days, followed by several days of increasing volume—this indicates genuine accumulation.

**Rules 3 to 6 follow similar logic**—don’t chase highs, don’t bottom-fish, look at trends not short-term moves, and discipline is more important than being right.

The core behind these six rules is: short-term market fluctuations are meant to confuse, but the long-term trend is the decisive factor. Stick to these principles, and you’ll transform from a retail investor into a systematic one.