Here's my personal view and experience.
Firstly, I try to read and learn as much as possible, from internet, forums, groups, training courses, and friends, etc.
Once I have overview of general concept about Cryptocurrency, Blockchain, ICO, market... it's time to test hot water by myself. I spend a small amount of budget that can be lost, at worst. I consider it a tuition to practice trading bitcoin and altcoins.
I also spend time participating in several good airdrops and boundties. Those can give me some money back, hopefully, if I select smartly and luckily enough.
If I earn some bucks from bounties, I re-invest in potential ICO as well.
All those above activities will help me get some achievement day by day. Maybe in a few more year I can make enough money as a parttime source.
How about you guys?