I like that, preparation not prediction.
A good friend asked me how to trade. I told him it's like surfing.
Number one is know the ocean, and how to swim. Don't go in unless it's safe and you can handle it. Be prepared for anything, and wait patiently for the right set (up), pick your wave, ride it but know when to get out... paddle back out...
Really there are similarities. I grew up in and on the ocean and have a great respect for the sea's ability to feed, kill, entertain, and transport us people, not unlike the markets.
Hope you don't think I'm nuts but really, think about it. I see tourists just jump in, and WHAM. The waves look so inviting and they see other people out there, so...