When I first entered the market in 2017, I only had 2000 yuan in my pocket. At that time, I knew nothing, buying and selling on impulse, experiencing countless liquidations and drawdowns. Looking back now, the biggest gain over these eight years isn't the number in my account, but every pitfall I stepped into taught me what "the market" really means.

Over the years, staying up late, anxious trades, paying tuition fees time and again, I gradually figured out some things. Saying these are "iron laws" might be a bit much, but each one is an experience earned with real money.

**Rule 1: Rapid rise and slow decline, don't rush to sell.**

It looks like the price is surging, but when it rises quickly and falls slowly, this pattern often isn't the top. The big players are accumulating, trying to raise the cost basis. What is the real danger signal? After a volume-driven rally, a sudden dump. That’s the moment to be cautious.

**Rule 2: Rapid decline and slow rebound, don't rush to buy the dip.**

The price drops fast, rebounds slowly—appearing stable, but in reality, it's the last act before distribution. Many are fooled by the illusion of "no more falling," but the market is best at punishing those with wishful thinking.

**Rule 3: High volume at a high level isn't necessarily bad; in fact, no volume is the most dangerous.**

Volume proves there's still trading activity; the bulls and bears are still fighting. No trading volume? The big players have already left, and all that's left is air. If you chase in at this point, you'll be the last to catch the falling knife.

**Rule 4: Don't rush into a bottom with high volume; look for sustainability.**

One day, suddenly, the trading volume explodes, and it looks like it's about to take off. But it might just be a fleeting moment. What's the real sign of a breakout? Continuous volume, especially after consolidation with gradual, steady increases, indicating serious accumulation by the big players.

**Rule 5: Candlesticks are just surface; trading volume is the essence.**

Price movements reflect emotions like a mirror—momentary. But volume won't lie. Those who can read volume truly understand what the market is saying.

**Rule 6: The highest level of mastery is "nothing."**

Without attachment, you can hold a flat position and wait patiently, not overwhelmed by FOMO. Without greed, you dare to press the sell button at the right time. Without fear, you have the courage to enter when opportunities arise. In essence, controlling your emotions is more effective than any technical analysis.

From an uninformed retail investor to a calm and capable trader, I’ve spent 2920 days gaining this insight: it's never the smartest people who make the most money, but the most patient ones.

Opportunities are actually available every day. It's not a lack of opportunities, but a lack of direction. When you can distinguish noise from signals, and stay calm between greed and fear, then making money becomes a natural thing.