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Ever become so angry or
frustrated with an opponent’s play that you call a questionable hand just to
make a point? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Everybody has, at some time or
another, let their emotions go at the poker table, and it usually does nothing
but cost money. That’s what this tip is about, the dreaded loss of control
known as Tilting.
Tilting happens at the poker table when we make plays we normally wouldn’t
because of external factors- for obvious reasons, this is bad news! A
fundamental key to survival (and avoiding bankruptcy!) at the poker table is
to keep your emotions in check- don’t let anger, frustration, fatigue, or
disappointment take control of you, because in a challenging situation like
poker, success requires that you maintain focus and reason at all times. This
is one of the big aspects that separates the professionals from the wanna-bes;
you rarely ever see a professional lose his cool and break focus at the poker
table, and I guarantee you never see someone who does that win a tournament.
This isn’t to say don’t play a draw, or don’t go with your instinct- those are
completely different aspects of the game.
While it may sound simple, in application remaining calm can be very
difficult, and it is one of the challenges any player faces when they sit
down. Poker, while immediately external, is also remotely internal, and in
order to be successful, you need to give yourself every advantage possible.
Think about that next time you sit down at the table, whether it be among
friends or at a 2000 player tournament, if you remain calm and in control,
you’re sure to have an advantage.
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