If your principal is still in the three-figure range, we need to have a serious talk about a set of principles. The crypto world isn't that mysterious; the key is not to step into pitfalls right from the start.

Last year, there was a trader whose account only had $600. At first, he was trembling when placing orders, afraid of getting liquidated with a single trade. But what happened to him later? In one month, his account grew to $1,200; in three months, it surged to $35,000. Zero liquidations throughout the process. Some say it was luck? Don’t be fooled. It’s all about discipline and execution.

He followed three rules, and let’s break them down one by one:

**Rule 1: Divide your funds into three parts, always keep a backup**

Split your principal into three portions. The first part ($200) is for day trading, only trading mainstream coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, closing out if the fluctuation hits 3-5%. The second part ($200) is for swing trading, only acting on confirmed opportunities, holding positions for 3-5 days to seek stability. The third part ($200) is frozen—this is the capital for turning things around, and you shouldn’t touch it in any market condition.

Have you ever gone all-in on a trade? When it rises, you feel euphoric; when it falls, you panic. True winners know how to keep cash in hand.

**Rule 2: Follow the trend, avoid platform fee traps**

Most of the market time is sideways and frustrating. Frequent trading is like giving money to the exchange. Without clear signals, stay put; only act when signals appear. Take out half when you earn 12%, and keep the cash in hand for peace of mind.

Experts have a clear rhythm: patience when idle, gains when active. They don’t chase high when doubling, but steadily take profits.

**Rule 3: Stop-loss is the bottom line, emotions are the biggest enemy**

Set a stop-loss at most 2% of your principal per trade; if hit, exit immediately—no negotiations. When profits exceed 4%, cut half of the position; let the remaining run to maximize gains. Never add to a losing position; don’t let emotions control you.

You may not always get the market right, but you must always follow the rules. Making money, in essence, is about using a system to control your own destructive tendencies.

Turning $600 into $35,000 isn’t a matter of luck; it’s the result of rules, patience, and discipline. Having a small principal isn’t the problem; the real issue is wanting to reverse the trend with a single shot. Remember this, take it slow.