PieSky: indeed, success in anything, usually results from learning from mistakes and making the adjustments to be able to skillfully chart the winning course. Most people fear failure, i.e. mistakes. Trading stocks is simply a giant poker game. Money management and quickly cutting losses will always lead to a winning pot. The great advantage of trading over poker is that we have all sorts of tools, including SEC reports. Then the final killer is being able to buck the crowd. Stock-specific message boards usually foster group-think comraderie rather than unemotional discipline.
"When in doubt, empty the clip."