In the last issue we discussed honesty and how it relates to money management habits. Now we'll take a look at why and how it must be a part of your self evaluation as well. First of all, you need to be realistic about clarifying your level of play, because each player category calls for different strategies and limits.
When I'm coaching, I generally use the following titles to define my students.
1. Novice
2. Poker Hobbyist
3 Casual Semi-Pro
4. Serious Semi-Pro
5. Professional
I label them N, PH, CSP, SSP and PR. We're addressing the first four in this series because they are the players that fill most of our poker rooms.
We all know what an N is by the very definition-a beginner. A PH plays occasionally, mostly killing time, and plays for the thrill of playing. They thrive on the excitement of outdrawing your big hands and bragging about it to their friends. Oh, don't get me wrong, they would love to win but it's not their priority.
A CSP is one who has a regular income, studies the game a bit and plays mainly on weekends. He's always looking for the perfect game for his skill level and has quite a few ups and downs as he bounces toward success.
An SSP is a serious devotee of the game and plays a lot of poker weekly. His goal is to augment his income and perhaps become good enough to devote all his time to playing poker. This individual will play medium sized games up to $5-$10 no-limit hold 'em, and has learned to protect his bankroll from foolish moves.
Please assess yourself honestly and place yourself in the category that most aptly describes your play. Once you do this, you can adjust your play and budget accordingly. Your skill level will improve with time, but it is usually necessary to read some of the great books that are available in today's market. Believe me, there is no point in playing over your head, so don't frustrate yourself trying to satisfy your ego. Play a game where you feel you're in control of your chips and take home the money!
When you are playing for fun, there is no sensory system that will tell you when to stop. Your brain usually can't determine how much fun is enough! You have to decide this before it causes a problem. One of the ways to control this is to set a trigger that reminds you when it's time to go.
For example, only buy in for an amount you can afford to lose without causing you concern. Set a time limit that coincides with the time it takes for you to feel weary or bored. And lastly, there is nothing wrong with going home an early winner, so do what I do occasionally. If I triple up quickly I set a trigger of two missed draws and cash out because it indicates my rush is over.
It all boils down to tailoring your game to fit your chosen level. If you do this and seriously work at it, you will be amazed at the results you'll achieve within a very short time. I firmly believe that playing to win at all levels is the correct way to learn this game. In this manner, a novice progresses to poker hobbyist and then upward from there. Miracles do happen, as long as you work at it... Honest.
