Avoiding the Dark Side of Poker

Poker is a lot of fun, and it can be a very lucrative hobby, but there is also a dark side of poker. Gambling can be extremely addictive, and if you have an addictive personality, you could be at risk for becoming a victim. It is essential that you understand how to set goals and limitations for yourself so you do not have to deal with the dark side of poker.

Limitations

There are poker players who play 16 tables at a time and those who play for hours at a time, but this does not mean they are addicted. There are poker players who play just one game each day that are addicted. The key to avoiding addiction is to set limitations. Create a monetary budget each day and stick to that budget. You will never succeed if you assume you have to keep playing until you have won your money back. Create limitations and stick to them.

Setting Time Frames

If you create a budget of $50 each day, you are going to have to choose the time frame in which you are willing to lose it. You could play super small games and play all day long or you can play one large game and use your daily limit within an hour. It is up to you how to utilize the budget you have, but remember that once it is gone, it is gone. Many people set daily, weekly, or even monthly budgets in order to help them along.

The Right Mindset

Finally, adopt a good mindset when you are winning so you will keep your profits. If you are up $150, set aside the $100 and play with the original $50 you started out with. This will ensure that you do not lose all your winnings and that poker is actually lucrative for you. At the same time, remember that not ever gaming session will produce these results in order to set the proper expectations.

Poker is definitely fun, but if you let it get out of hand, it can cost you more than just your bankroll. Never spend money that is set aside for other purposes, always set a budget, and go into a poker game with the right mindset in order to avoid addiction.