Overnight, he lost 50,000 yuan in his account. He stared at the fierce large bearish candlestick on the screen, his mind completely froze. Just 15 minutes—that’s all it took, and everything was over.

It’s not because of poor skills, lack of news, or even bad luck. Simply put, it’s because he violated those seemingly common-sense trading bottom lines that can only be earned with real money. Use his story as a cautionary tale to help you avoid these pitfalls.

**Don’t act when you’re exhausted**

Eyes too tired to open, irritable mood, just had a fight, or had a couple of drinks—at these times, your brain is not under your control. Your judgment can plummet from 100 to 20 instantly. The market doesn’t care if you’re tired; it will mercilessly punish every wrong decision. When tired, just sleep well—really, the market won’t run away.

**Don’t touch the market when it’s noisy around you**

A noisy TV at home, a lively gathering with friends—at these times, just enjoy life and don’t try to be clever. Trying to multitask often results in placing wrong orders, missing the best opportunities, or even making completely opposite moves. Trading requires 100% focus. Dividing your attention is like gambling.

**Opportunities without a plan are not real opportunities**

“Feeling like it’s time to get up, go for it!” or “Everyone’s making crazy money, I gotta join in!”—these impulsive rushes are the most efficient way to harvest retail traders. Don’t trade unfamiliar markets, and opportunities outside your plan are simply not worth chasing.

**Observe at critical moments**

Before and after major data releases, important holidays, or periods of market liquidity drying up, extreme volatility is very likely. The smartest choice at these times is to watch from the sidelines, not to jump into the fire.

**Cut losses immediately when losing streak begins**

Repeated losses can distort your mindset. The gambler’s mentality of “must win back” will take over your brain, leading to chaotic operations, and ultimately making the hole even bigger. When facing continuous losses, the smartest move is to close the app and go for a walk.

**In the end**

Controlling your fingers means controlling your capital. The market is vast, and opportunities are plentiful. There’s no need to stare at the screen all the time. The next bus is always on its way.