young kid looking for advice

Hey guys im 22 years old and i was looking for some advice on how I can get my bankroll up. I started investing a couple years ago with about 28k. I invested in stocks like Apple and some other tech stocks. I probably got a bit lucky and caught the market went it was hot, but I made my way up to 33k. I got a bit cocky about a year ago and put 5k into an apple call option. that obviously didn't go too well. I lost all 5k as the option expired and I am also invested in stocks: EMC, SBUX, ZAGG, and NEM. These stocks haven't been too hot either so my portfolio value is sitting at about 23k. I'm down 5k over 3 years and pretty pissed off about it, especially when i was up 5k at one point. Should i pull this money out of the market and see if I can make it back betting on sports or should i ride it out for a bit longer. im not really sure where this market is headed and im really feeling remorse after over investing and not diversifying.

Stocks take a bit of time to learn the game.  You need patience and know going in is this a long term trade (5years) or am I just trying to make 10% and get out?  I bought BBRG a month ago at $13.40 and will be getting out soon after a 17% monthly return.  I know it does not have explosive earnings as a restaurant, so I bought it low and took it for a ride for a few bucks.  If you want in and out quick, look at Coinstar.  They dip into the high 40's to low 50's and go up 10% before a pull back.  Just follow them and you will see a pattern.

If you are looking for a 5 year stock to just buy and put away, look at the earnings of AIG.  They will double in 2-3 years.  Also check out WFC.

GL

Well kid, you said you are 22 so keep it simple!

Max out the 401k at work (match) and put the rest in an IRA or Roth. Hell you got over 40 years so just relax! The money will be there so don't chase a stock or three to get rich quick because it rarely happens.

I say forget stocks - all of them.  The equities markets are horribly unstable now due to many factors.

The USD is erroding - my best advice to you is buy silver bullion.  Only buy the silver you can hold in your hand.

You will be fine

Dividend stocks and roll over dividends.. look for top tier companies that pay 4-7%.

Look for good real estate buys in your area .... are a lot of good deals to be had and rental property is a solid money maker