Michael Saylor, a well-known Bitcoin advocate and the founder of MicroStrategy, has expressed his views on Bitcoin in his iconic “21 Rules of Bitcoin.”
Combining Saylor’s ideas with their own incisive criticism, the YouTube channel Simply Bitcoin has condensed them into 10 basic rules. Let us explore the salient features of these guidelines and their implications for the path of Bitcoin.
Michael Saylor’s 10 Rules of Bitcoin
Rule #1: Understand BTC to Embrace Its Potential
The first rule is straightforward: you will condemn Bitcoin if you do not understand it; you will buy it if you do. Saylor claims that holding fiat money in the modern economy causes a steady decrease in worth due to inflation. As a deflationary asset with value over time, Bitcoin presents a solution. The main point of view is to educate yourself; once the potential clicks, you won’t turn around.
Rule #2: Bitcoin Thrives Amid Chaos and Uncertainty
Unlike other assets, Bitcoin thrives on uncertainty. Wars, financial crises, and changing administrations of the past have shown how fragile traditional economic institutions are. Because of its decentralized nature, Bitcoin is strong against anarchy and provides a safe haven for those looking for protection in trying circumstances.
Rule #3: Guarantees True Digital Ownership
True ownership of Bitcoin is one of its most exciting promises. Unlike real estate, equities, or even gold, Bitcoin is not vulnerable to outside force devaluation or seizure. Bitcoin holders have digital property rights through their private keys, unlike goods subject to laws or physical seizure.
Rule #4: Embrace Bitcoin with Confidence and Action
Saylor emphasizes that one’s attitude towards embracing the Bitcoin market determines the price they pay when entering it. Whether Bitcoin was $100 or $50,000, the value lies in understanding its long-term possibilities rather than regretting missed opportunities. This guideline emphasizes the need for action over doubt.
Rule #5: Bitcoin Is Your Escape from the Fiat Matrix
Similar to “The Matrix,” Bitcoin exposes the flaws of fiat-based institutions. Saylor argues that distorted economic measures and central banks contribute to false ideas of control. Bitcoin offers financial freedom and self-sovereignty, providing a way out of this unfair system.
Rule #6: Bitcoin Insights Emerge in Times of Need
Insights about Bitcoin often surface during personal or financial crises. Many see Bitcoin as a lifeline when they realize the inefficiency of traditional methods. According to Saylor, the logical choice for Bitcoin follows when the demand for a better system becomes undeniable.
Rule #7: Everybody’s Orange Pill
Adopting Bitcoin is like taking the “orange pill,” a metaphor that applies not only to the tech-savvy or financially conscious. Saylor highlights Bitcoin’s inclusiveness and its ability to empower individuals, companies, and even countries. Bitcoin is for everyone willing to learn, regardless of their level of curiosity or management of hedge funds.
Rule #8: Think in Bitcoin for Long-Term Value
Saylor questions the practice of measuring wealth in currency terms. Thinking in Bitcoin enables a paradigm shift where long-term value preservation takes precedence over short-term benefits. He compares Bitcoin to a masterpiece—it is not meant to conform to us; we must adapt to it.
Rule #9: Stay Focused with Laser-Eye Dedication
Within the Bitcoin community, the “laser eyes” meme symbolizes unwavering dedication. Saylor advises against selling Bitcoin for low-yield government bonds or transient altcoins. Remaining dedicated to Bitcoin ensures long-term growth and helps avoid the pitfalls of distractions.
Rule #10: Spread Bitcoin with Patience and Compassion
Saylor urges the Bitcoin community to welcome newcomers with compassion, even if frustrations arise from a rigged financial system. Patience and empathy can turn detractors into believers, while anger and disputes often alienate them. The goal is to build a more resilient community that encourages adoption.
Just as Bitcoin has adapted, Saylor’s guidelines provide a roadmap for navigating the Bitcoin ecosystem. These ideas make a compelling case for supporting Bitcoin, whether one understands its fundamentals, survives turmoil, or promotes adoption.