As cryptocurrency markets approach what analysts project as the 2025 bull run, investors are reevaluating traditional financial strategies. Ann Marie McQueen, a Canadian journalist and long-term Abu Dhabi resident, documents her transformative journey from passive crypto holder to active technical analyst—a shift she describes as overcoming ‘Gen-X mentality’ financial conditioning.
The evolution began with recognizing a critical gap in her investment approach: while thoroughly managing traditional finances, she had delegated crypto trading decisions to others. This realization coincided with observing divergent strategies within her crypto education community. Where the group’s founder advocated profit-taking without active trading, another faction embraced technical chart analysis and leveraged trading.
Technical analysis—interpreting price charts through patterns, indicators, and market psychology—represents a paradigm shift from buy-and-hold philosophy. Proponents like AZ Penn, author of ‘Technical Analysis for Beginners,’ demonstrate how strategic entry and exit points can optimize returns in crypto’s volatile environment. Successful trader Anna Macko reports a 95% win rate since 2021 using these methods, though she emphasizes the psychological discipline required.
McQueen acknowledges the mental barriers: the ingrained belief that ‘time in the market beats timing the market,’ reinforced by generational financial wisdom. Yet historical examples illustrate the opportunity cost of inaction—selling Bitcoin at $124,000 to repurchase at $80,000 would substantially increase holdings.
Her commitment now involves intensive education: free coaching sessions, technical analysis workbooks, and a 52-part YouTube trading boot camp by trader TJR. This represents not merely skill acquisition but psychological transformation—developing emotional awareness, discipline, and humility in market participation.
The underlying philosophy transcends financial gain: true risk lies not in potential losses but in refusing to engage with evolving financial systems. As institutional adoption grows and global governments recognize cryptocurrency’s potential, individual investors face both unprecedented opportunities and the responsibility of self-education.
McQueen’s journey symbolizes a broader generational shift: from relying on financial intermediaries to embracing financial autonomy through technological literacy, regardless of mathematical background or prior experience.