Topic becomes interesting... :)
Let me offer my take (just thoughts on the fly, based on some observations).
There are two kinds of guru.
1. Offer no system, or very vague and weak one. Mostly refer to their experience, or natural gift, or something else of this kind. Often try to create somewhat hysterical atmosphere, with yelling and screaming, non-limited bragging, offensive language (sometimes friends pass to me incredible examples of that). Some faithful followers help to create intolerant environment for those who express doubt or question guru's advice, sometimes even simple question is being perceived as attempt of attack and leads to kicking out. Summary: parasites living off people's laziness and desire for beeing led as opposed to thinking for themselves.
2. Provide education in the first place. In this case the matter is, whether guy really knows what he is talking about and how good he is at teaching. Some add real time monitoring and calls (sometimes even with posting of their own trades), which supposed to illustrate how principles (patterns, strategies) work. Nothing but respect for those who are really successful in their own trading and who went for it as new business endeavor, sticking their neck out. There are people that get real education off these services, and there are people that want calls only and don't bother learning - not really guru's fault as long as he honestly offers solid educational material.
Zero respect for those who went for it to make money on sidelines of trading because could not make it in trading for themselves. They teach nothing valuable and their systems work pretty random, but they are good in masking of failure and outlining of winning cases (I observe now and then how it's done and have to admit: brainwashing is their strong side :))
Like I said, just some thoughts. No copyright claimed <gg>, if something seems of use, Alan, feel free to quote not referring to the source :)
Good luck with your lectures and congratulations on book success!
Vadym |
