Friday, January 11, 2008

Be Happy!

People play poker in all sorts of frames of mind. Some are very concentrated, some are playing for fun, some are playing above their means, some are partying or even drunk, some seem angry about the cards or perhaps something from the world outside the poker room.

My frame of mind is different in each game as well.

There's one thing I noticed studying my good games and my bad games: When I sit down at the table in a HAPPY mood, I'm much more likely to do well.

There are very good reasons for that:

- If you're in a bad mood, a run of poor cards is much more likey to put you on tilt.
- If you are worried because the stakes in this game are high, the good players will quickly realize it. They will push you around. You will fail to push small edges, you will not maximize good opportunities, and you will fold to aggressive betting much too often.
- If you are happy, you will seem confident to your opponents. You will have an easier time managing them.

Play poker when you are well-rested and in a good mood. Avoid games when you are tired, stressed, or upset. This simple rule will greatly increase your enjoyment of the game, and add to your bottom line as well.

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