Insufficient principal of $1500? Instead of dreaming about doubling your money every day, it's better to focus on how to survive first.

The crypto market has been bizarre these past two years, especially around macro events like non-farm payroll data, where volatility can be deadly. Many small accounts get wiped out during these times—full positions, heavy holdings, unwilling to cut losses. Frankly, the smaller the account, the more disciplined you need to be.

I’ve summarized three practical survival strategies that I hope will be helpful to everyone.

**First, diversify your funds.**
Take $1200 as an example, split into three parts of $400 each: one for intraday trading, strictly following a one-trade-per-day rhythm; one reserved for swing opportunities, only entering after clear signals; and the last one as a lifeline, never touching it at any time. The benefit of this approach is that even if one position blows up, the account can still breathe. Those who go all-in usually die the fastest.

**Second, only trade in confirmed market conditions.**
Skip sideways, ambiguous, or unpredictable markets. Most short-term traders lose money because of this. Instead of frequent trading, it's better to stay in cash and wait. The principal is far more valuable than the number of trades.

**Third, manage emotions with cold, hard numbers.**
Set a stop-loss at 2%, and close the position when hit; take profit at 4% and cut your position in half to lock in gains; if the account’s floating profit exceeds 20%, withdraw 30% to a safe place immediately; never add to losing positions, no holding, no gambling, no hoping for a turnaround.

The truth in the crypto world is simple: only by staying alive can you have a chance to turn things around. Dividing positions, selective trading, and strict discipline may sound dull, but they can help you avoid most pitfalls. Remember, the fastest path to success often requires learning to slow down first.