Let us review the statement:
” As I have said countless times before, you only make money in the stock market if you get out in time”
Warren buffet has made a ton of money by staying in the market. That one example makes the statement absolutely false.
You only convert an appreciated asset into dollars when you sell (make money).
Until then you have an appreciated asset that will continue to fluctuate in value until it is sold. Until then, you have a high net worth “as of (fill in date)”
But rather than quibble about terms, It seems best to move on.
I wish you well.