I have been thinking about my year and a few months of experiences first learning about, and then investing in cryptocurrency. What a ride, some of it fun, and others times it has been frustrating.  

Lesson one: No matter what, don't buy or sell when emotional.  

I think it is an important lesson I learned a long time ago, but initially did not think about it in terms of buying and selling cryptocurrency. I remember being told as a child, if you really want something, put it back (when the only shopping was done at brick and mortar) and if you still  want it when you come back, maybe you can buy it. Well, this is good advice per say when thinking about cryptocurrency. I have had the urge to put money into some cryptocurrencies as they were going up (recently Ripple), but refrained. I think that it was a good decision. Buying the dip is good for me.

Lesson two: There are unfortunately a lot of scammers and fraud  involved in cryptocurrency.

I mean look at Terra/Luna and FTX run by SBF. I mean, a year ago everyone loved SBF, he was everywhere and a golden child. I have learned to not get caught up in the hype. Seriously, I love looking at cryptocurrencies and search for as much negative news as I do positive. I want both sides of the story. I don't like drinking the crypto Kool Aid.  

Lesson three: It is painfully obvious US laws around cryptocurrencies need to be developed.

I mean, in the last month, one judge deems Ripple a Security in once instance and a commodity in another. Then, a different judge in the same state (new York) challenges that ruling and states some cryptocurrencies are securities no matter how they are sold. Then you have the SEC, who seems to be willy nilly picking winners and losers among carious cryptocurrencies as securities and their favorites as commodities. Honestly, if Ethereum is a commodity so are most if not all other cryptocurrencies (Cardano anyone!) What a joke so far.

Lesson four: I really like the future of cryptocurrencies.

Well, I think in the long run it is a big part of the world's financial future. However, even though I like the future, I wish things would settle down a bit and move forward in the right direction in terms of policy, policing, and prices. Weeding out more fraud will be painful but good.

In my first year, I bought and sold some cryptocurrencies, I have been writing about cryptocurrencies. BY the way, thanks for reading and tipping. I am not really in it for the few cents I am awarded for writing (I do enjoy it but I write no matter if  I get five cents of a dollar of more per post). I like documenting my journey. I like o look back at my old posts and see what  I was thinking. I also have been extremely happy and frustrated by the prices roller coaster.

Here's to the next year and beyond. By the way, I think the presidential election year in 2024 will be a boon for cryptocurrency!