In more than 30 years working in risk management, there is one rule I adhere to before all others.
'If you are not prepared to flush the money you intend to invest down the toilet, don't invest it'.
I have never faltered from this rule, in doing so, have never put anything truly material at risk (like my family, sanity or financial health).
Perhaps a little crude, but to the point, and highly effective.
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