Tho your question was not addressed to me, other than earnings plays, for the most part I trade underlyings rather than the options because there's less to fight. No IV, no delta, narrower spreads, more liquidity, less hanky panky. What you see is what you get.
Two points. Actually the first one is a question. First the question: Do the computers in your dept working? I guess everyone is complaining. Printers are not working, lots of crashes ,.... Now the second part: You made profit for 11 months and you lost 19% on paper (so far) and you are crying? I believe you have become greedy and can not accept loss but you don't want to reduce the risk. If you are profitable YTD, then keep doing the same crap. I do the same. I have made over 330% this year. Just take some money off the table when you make money.
In my experience, any directional bet is hampered by an option position, not helped by it. A trade in the underlying is much, much more efficient. Over the years the profits I've made going long or short options would have paid off much better in taking a position in the underlying, and using intelligent management of the position.
Haha ..all the computers in my dept are displaying option chains.. everyone is complaining that they are getting assignment notice from OCC ..printers are printing crazy greeks good advise though.. will incorporate in the master template
spindr0 has made a good point in another post - Makes sense ..this is something that was not done this month....but it was followed during the previous winning months