Poker is a game that puts one’s analytical and mathematical skills to the test. The game also indirectly teaches many life lessons that are invaluable in other aspects of a person’s life.
1. Teaches the ability to observe other players.
The ability to read other players is a key facet of poker, especially for those looking to improve their game. Players have to be able to recognise tells and subtle changes in their opponents’ behaviour in order to make the right decisions in the game. These skills are not only valuable in poker, but also in other areas of life where they could prove critical in a situation such as business negotiations.
2. It teaches you to be confident in your decision making, even when you don’t have all the facts.
Poker requires a high level of concentration, particularly when players are waiting for their turn to act. This is a great way to train the mind in the art of staying focused, which can be beneficial for people who are often distracted by outside factors such as phones and TVs. Being able to concentrate on a task for extended periods of time is a skill that can be useful in many areas of life, not just poker.
3. It teaches you to be disciplined and to think objectively.
Poker involves taking a step back from your emotions, examining the situation and making a decision based on logic and probability. People who are unable to do this tend to lose more often than those who take the time to think about their decision and the odds of winning. The divide between break-even beginner players and big-time winners is often a matter of starting to view the game in a more cold, detached, mathematical, and logical manner than they do currently.
4. It teaches you to be aggressive when necessary.
Poker is a game of betting, where each player has the option to check (pass on the bet), call (match the amount put into the pot by the preceding player) or raise (bet more than the previous player). A good poker player will know when to be aggressive and will maximise the value of their strong hands by being ruthless with their opponents. A bad poker player will often slow play their strong hands to try and outwit their opponent, but this will only lead to them losing more money in the long run. The ability to be aggressive when it is required is a valuable skill that can be applied in many other areas of life. The more you practice and watch experienced players, the quicker you will develop your own instincts. This will help you become a better poker player and avoid the many mistakes made by inexperienced players. Keep learning and don’t give up on your dream to be a professional poker player!
