Poker is no doubt a thinking game so you’re bound to have thousands of thoughts during each session. Unfortunately, some of these thoughts can lead you straight down the wrong path – especially when you’re repeatedly having them! Here are some common thoughts people have at the poker table that can be detrimental to their bankroll.
1. They’re bluffing.
Bluffing is one of the most over-hyped plays in poker. In fact, some players think others are bluffing on every street. But the truth is that most people play their hand like it is the majority of the time, and only bluff when good opportunities arise. That being said, calling people with second rate hands just to see if they’re bluffing is a costly move.
2. I’ll keep playing until I break even again.
Losing sessions are never fun, but you only make them worse when you stick around in an attempt to get back to even. If you’re suffering through a bad session and you aren’t thinking clearly, call it a loss for the day and come back at another time.
3. I’m already this far into the hand, what’s a few more dollars.
If a call is wrong, then a call is wrong. It doesn’t matter how much money you have in the pot if you’re 99% sure that your hand is beat. This is especially true is you’re making a statistically incorrect play in Limit poker.
4. I must play aggressive.
There’s a difference between playing aggressive and playing stupid. Even still, some players make huge raises and unnecessary bets just to convince themselves they’re playing aggressive. It’s actually a much better idea to start off tight and get more aggressive as you learn the game.
5. I’m going to move up a limit and see if this works better.
As ridiculous as it sounds, losing players sometimes get the mindset that they can move up in limits and be more successful. But if you can’t beat the limit you’re currently at, why move up to tougher competition?
