Quote from bvam1:
If you're looking at the long-term, then, the small difference is tiny, though. I look at SPX to trade ES.
exit last trade 50.25 for another + 3.75.
non-system net: +12.75
system net: +7.75
All my long terms start short term. It's just what works for me. I don't trade often, but when I do I put on a decent position (for my risk tolerance, anyway) and keep the stop tight, with an aim to have a daytrade turn in to a swing trade. Yes, this might not work for everyone but it works for me.
