In today's America? Without any skill set? You are dreaming. That is the allure of being a trader, you don't need any kind of degree or special skill set, just an account and a computer...
I know real name of NoD, her quasi-mentor and other "Internet" traders. We chatted in Skype continuously with multiple live calls. So their results are quite proven, those proofs just not available to anyone on ET, exactly like those traders you mention. So my question still remains: can anyone who's profitable on a consistent basis in the markets be considered "professional"?
Why then is what the Internet folks say often in direct conflict with my experience in the real world with proven and verified by outside sources professionals? I'm not naive enough to believe someone on the Internet or Skype---- It's very easy to fool folks via these communication methods. Maybe you have found a small circle of savants who can do it in an unconventional way--- who knows. But what they say holds zero weight to me.
Everyone is wealthy on ET, Cornix. Just ask them. Housewives make a killing trading oil with rarely a loss, Midwestern farmers have super computers in their basements along with server farms in fields, everyone is a hero in this fantasy land. Yet. No one--- yourself included will demonstrate in a controlled combine. I can only conclude-- if you don't do the combine, you are living in lala land. No more excuses and fantasy journals. Do it live or don't post at all.
What does any of this drivel have to do with the OP's thread? Don't you have your own "journal" where you can argue your nonsense?
Maybe your "real world" professionals don't tell all the story? Also our perception is selective, you may not notice some of the high level professionals who confirm what people like NoD say.
I do demonstrate it and will keep doing that. Not on Combine of course, because I like to play by my own rules only, but in a way nobody doubts is legit.