Starting with just $1000 into crypto? Here's what I'd actually do. First, lock in steady income—grab a 9-to-5 or whatever part-time gig fits your schedule. That's your foundation, not optional. Then think distribution: commit to one solid, well-backed project and build real content around it. Don't scatter your energy chasing hype. On the DeFi side, set up 3 separate wallets and run stablecoin farming strategies across different protocols. It's the grind that matters here—consistent work, focused storytelling, multiple yield streams. The $1000 is just the seed; your time and attention are what actually scale this.