I wonder the count, I once read a book written by broadway dancer, which talked about the nonending cycle in the stock market. From one stock to another. Why do people short stocks? I mean the maximum gain is less than 100 percent, think about it...
Ever think of the use of leverage - especially using options and futures? And companies such as Enron, Worldcom and more recently Sears.
Looking at the big picture why not invest only in the blue chips instead of wasting your time trying to be right every time...an ego is an expensive hat, while the risk is for the gambler, and intrinsic value as an investment is a way of life...
Why is looking at everything from a long or short perspective ... "trying to be right every time"? Do you follow sports and not look at who you think might win or might lose? BTW I am a futures day trader where things often change radically if not by the minute, by the hour. Maybe your perspective/time frame/market is different. Opps: just noticed your topic is in the stocks section.