Want to sustain yourself through trading? This path is not that easy.

Many people enter the crypto market with shining eyes, thinking that mastering a few technical indicators will allow them to earn effortlessly. The reality is often the opposite—they come and go, with their accounts dropping from hundreds of thousands to just a few thousand.

Those who truly survive in the crypto world rely not on flashy techniques. They embed risk management into their bones and treat market laws as ironclad rules. Based on years of market observation, here are 8 core survival principles:

**First, analyze the structure first, then control emotions.** A common mistake in short-term trading is obsessively watching large timeframe charts. In fact, the rhythm is hidden in more detailed timeframes—5-minute and 15-minute trends often determine short-term opportunities. Clarify the structure before entering the market, and emotional fluctuations will naturally be manageable.

**Second, when the trend is unclear, staying in cash is the smartest move.** Is the market direction still ambiguous? At this point, trading more frequently increases the chance of mistakes. Instead of repeatedly trying and losing capital in uncertainty, it’s better to wait calmly. When a genuine signal appears, you can earn back the previous waiting costs in one move.

**Third, short-term trades must follow the main trend.** Even obscure coins should not be traded when cheap. If the direction is not followed by large funds, profiting from short-term fluctuations is extremely difficult. Conversely, mainstream coins and major sectors with concentrated funds are the hunting grounds for short-term traders.

**Fourth, follow your plan and reject impulsiveness.** Impulsive trades almost always lead to losses. Every trade should have a pre-planned entry point, stop-loss, and target. Emotional decisions are the main reason for account shrinkage.

**Fifth, consider advice but rely on your own verification.** Others’ analyses can be accurate, but if you don’t go through your own logical deduction and validation, you’ll find it hard to hold your position when the market truly fluctuates. Listen to opinions, but also develop your own judgment standards.

**Sixth, look at the market first, then choose coins.** Many people do it backwards—they pick a coin first and then look for reasons to support its rise. This approach is the easiest way to get trapped. The correct order should be: judge the overall trend → filter assets that align with the trend → formulate a plan.

**Seventh, don’t buy the dip in a trend-following environment.** Guessing rebound points during a decline carries risks far greater than potential gains. Following the trend allows the market itself to work for you; trying to bottom-fish is fighting against the market. Which is easier? Clearly, following the trend.

**Eighth, stop after big volatility.** Whether your account skyrockets or suffers severe drawdowns, you need to pause and review. Don’t let emotions drive you to continue trading, as this often leads to liquidation.

Eight years of market ups and downs have made me see which traders can survive longer. Those who stick to discipline ultimately stand firm. Those who frequently try and fail will either be wiped out or leave in disappointment.

This market doesn’t need geniuses; it needs people who can withstand volatility and stick to rules. If you plan to root here long-term, these 8 principles are worth repeatedly digesting.