· scriptkitty · 3 min read
What are Paper Hands in crypto?
This post explains the concept of Paper Hands in cryptocurrency, its origins, and why it's often seen as a cautionary tale in the crypto community.

What are Paper Hands in crypto?
In the dynamic world of cryptocurrency trading, various terms have emerged to describe investor behavior. One such term that’s often used, particularly in contrast to “Diamond Hands,” is “Paper Hands.” But what exactly does it mean to have Paper Hands, and why is it generally viewed negatively in the crypto community? Let’s explore the meaning, origins, and implications of this term in the crypto space.
The Origin of Paper Hands
Like many crypto trading terms, “Paper Hands” originated from online trading communities, particularly forums like Reddit’s WallStreetBets. It gained prominence alongside its counterpart, “Diamond Hands,” during the meme stock frenzy of early 2021 and quickly found its way into cryptocurrency discourse.
What Paper Hands Actually Means
In the context of crypto, having “Paper Hands” refers to an investor’s tendency to sell their assets at the first sign of trouble or minimal profit. It implies a lack of conviction in one’s investments and an inability to withstand market volatility. The term suggests that the investor’s hands are made of paper – easily torn or damaged – as opposed to the sturdier “diamond” hands.
Example
Here are a couple of examples of how the term “Paper Hands” might be used:
- “John sold all his Bitcoin when it dipped 10%. Classic Paper Hands move.”
- “If you want to succeed in crypto, you need to avoid being Paper Hands and learn to hold through volatility.”
Benefits and Risks of Paper Hands
While having Paper Hands can protect an investor from potential losses in a declining market, it often leads to missing out on significant gains when assets recover. It can also result in frequent trading, increasing transaction costs and potentially triggering taxable events.
Practical Tips for Overcoming Paper Hands
To avoid succumbing to Paper Hands:
- Develop a solid investment strategy and stick to it
- Educate yourself about market cycles and volatility
- Set realistic profit targets and stop-loss levels
- Avoid investing more than you can afford to lose
- Practice emotional discipline in your trading
FAQs
Q: Are Paper Hands always bad? A: Not necessarily. In some cases, selling quickly can protect you from significant losses. However, it’s generally seen as a less successful strategy for long-term crypto investing.
Q: How can I tell if I have Paper Hands? A: If you find yourself frequently selling assets due to minor price fluctuations or out of fear during market dips, you might have Paper Hands.
Ready to Strengthen Your Hands?
Now that you understand the concept of Paper Hands in crypto, are you prepared to develop a more resilient investment strategy? Make sure to subscribe to our blog for more crypto insights, or check out our Flagship Play To Earn Farming Game - dCrops and start practicing holding through volatility!



