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I regret selling too soon: a lesson learned on prices

Selling Regret | Crypto Traders Share Their Mistakes

By

Elena Roth

Nov 22, 2025, 10:12 AM

Edited By

Aisha Patel

3 minutes reading time

A graph showing a steep decline in price from $40K to $28K, symbolizing a selling mistake
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A user recently expressed regret after selling Bitcoin for $28,000 when the price dropped from $40,000. This situation has reignited conversations among people reflecting on their own trading blunders.

Context of Trading Decisions

The crypto market has a reputation for volatility, and trading can be risky. The urgency to act when prices swing can create hasty decisions that lead to regret later. This specific incident has prompted a flood of anecdotes from other traders in the community.

Echoes of Regret

Many comments highlight a familiar theme of regret after selling. One user reminisced about selling during the COVID crash, saying it still haunts them today. Another chimed in: "I wouldnโ€™t call selling a mistake, it was not rebuying that was wrong." This sentiment reflects a widespread belief that timing the market is just as crucial as the initial decision to sell.

Timely Lessons from the Community

Others shared their own experiences, emphasizing the importance of holding onto assets through market dips. One trader recalled the December 2018 downturn, which was a devastating time for many. Another stated, "Give it a year, but in five years, weโ€™ll be fine." This perspective encourages patience and strategic decision-making.

"We all keep saying the same thing over and over for years. Just HODL!"

The Diverging Paths in Trading Strategy

The theme of whether to hold or sell creates diverse views across user boards. Several users pointed out that selling is often necessary due to personal circumstances, like needing funds for a down payment on a house. The ongoing discussion showcases a mix of both positive reinforcement for long-term holding versus concerns about market fluctuations.

Positive Outlook Amidst Regret

Despite the painful memories of selling, some users are optimistic about the market's future. "Itโ€™s cyclical; up and to the right," one user remarked, suggesting that the pain from past losses can lead to better strategies moving forward.

Key Takeaways for Traders

  • ๐Ÿ’” Many traders express regret over past sales, especially during downturns.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ A common theme is the need to rebuy after selling, rather than simply exiting the market.

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ Community members advocate for patience and strategic holding, emphasizing long-term stability over short-term losses.

While this discussion revolves around regret and learning from the past, it remains clear: the highs and lows of trading in the crypto market shape the strategies and sentiment of its community.

Winds of Change in the Crypto Market

As traders grapple with their past decisions, the crypto market is likely to witness a significant shift in sentiment. There's a strong chance that more people will adopt a long-term holding strategy as memories of regret surface, pushing them to reconsider their exit points. Experts estimate around 60% of individuals might shift focus towards educational resources, seeking to refine their timing and decision-making in future trades. With Bitcoin showing signs of recovery, many believe this could mark the start of a new bullish trend, leading to increased engagement and investment in the space.

Reflecting on Risky Investments

This situation bears resemblance to the early days of online startups in the late '90s. Many investors sold their stocks hastily after the dot-com bubble burst in 2000, only to watch as new technology evolved and birthed companies like Amazon and Google. Just like those who regret selling their crypto, early tech investors learned a tough lesson about holding through downturns and the need for patience. The underlying message remains clear: sometimes, the best investment decisions come not from quick gains but from the long view.