I tried to figure out that in trading the concept are not only in one aspect but it's base on your description of understanding trading, many more follows people methods of trading to arrive to same point, one thing I noticed in trading is that it's a skill that every one is up to have base on it discovery step to make it own profits. And I trading some of us causes the problem that arises during course of lost, greediness and anticipation of making more profit is the major caused of losing in trading. Three days ago I was with friends where we are blaming each other because of mistakes, we contributed money to invest into crude oil business, the first supply of crude oil the company we supply to, we made a good profit and second supply we made a higher profit, for second supply I suggested that we should remove our capitals and move on with our profit we made, but two of my friends insisted that we are going to buy more of the products with all the money I agreed with them for the third supply, on our way going we were diverted by hoodlums and chased out on the vehicle, till date we don't were products is. Its when my friend's realize that greediness is a disease and its a higher risky.
The title is quite confusing when you actually read the post body. But regardless, the point was conveyed well enough to be understood, cut the op some slack.
It is quite nice of you to share your experience and thoughts which would be beneficial for newbie traders.
Now for op, trading have concepts. Yes they do, and a lot at that. While one aspect may work great for one person, it may not work as well for the other. Just think of it as a shoe, there's no size that would fit everyone. There will always be bigger and smaller feet. And there's also the design preference and what the intended use would be for the shoe like is it for running, for playing sports etc., etc. I think you get my point.
So as a trader, it is always better to find the best techniques that would perfectly fit your personality and trading style. Glance at other techniques, but don't copy everything, just take whatever compliments your style better.
And in regards with the decision making, you really couldn't have done anything since it is an investment of you and your friends so the majority would of course be the one to decide what would be done with the funds. Just be glad that you and your friends were able to learn something from the experience and are still alive to talk about it.
Another advice would be if you are investing, keep it professional and avoid factors that would affect your decision making emotionally. While it is good to invest along with your friends or family, it would be better to keep the amount only up to a minimum which you can easily brush off if ever lost. This will not only save your funds but will also save your relationship with them. If you really have to, then be picky and only do it with the ones you really trust and you know are well versed in doing such investments.
Good luck bro.