Never played with anyone else's money, and I haven't ever got any money from family,or friends, but I did learn early not to blame anyone for my choices, and I learn from my mistakes and try do better in the future.
On the contrary actually. You can play with the big dogs, and you will need them to move the stocks you are in, if you play the pennies.The trick is to learn what you're doing wrong, learn how to use their momo, take their money, before they take yours. Find a good informational board with traders willing to help and answer questions.