Don't get so caught up in trying to hit a "home run" that you never actually get on base. There's nothing wrong with singles, doubles, and triples. Work on your batting average, get on base, don't try to hit every trade out of the park. The stock market isn't the lottery. Don't spend all of your time trying to buy stocks for 50 cents thinking you'll sell them at $5. You have to be realistic, don't let people sell you a dream. Rack up those 5,10,20% gains to build your bank. Consistency will keep you around for the long run, luck will have you sitting on the sidelines. Don't always think you have to swing for the fences. Even with a small amount of initial capital, you can gain consistently without buying stocks that no one else wants. Be where the action is.

Just my two cents.