1) in trading financials, it's all about how much you can afford to lose and how patient you can be.
profit may only come later.
being extra defensive is of ultimate importance. and being aggressive is absolutely necessary when it's called for, if above average returns are the objective.
2) "trend is your friend, till the end, when it bends."
try catch a trend early. if it doesn't materialize, get out. if it does, follow it till mrket tells you to get out. no need to catch the entire move. 50% of a trend could be hugely profitable with the right size.