The game of poker was developed some time during the early 19th century. Since those early beginnings, the game has grown to become an extremely popular pastime throughout the world. There are many parallels between poker and life. We’ve come up with a list of life lessons you can learn from playing the iconic card game:
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Not Making Decisions Based on Emotions
Getting heated during a game is okay. Letting your emotions take over your entire decision-making process, however, is not. When things don’t go your way, or people treat you rudely, don’t let your emotions control you. Letting your feelings cloud your judgment is a weakness. Making decisions based on logic and fact will not only save you money at the poker table, but also some major headaches in real life.
Failing Is Fine…Quitting Isn’t
In poker, you will lose. The same is true in life. And if you’ve never failed before, then you’re really not living. The road to success is littered with failures. But as long as you persist, you will eventually win. Success and tenacity go hand in hand. So when things don’t go as planning, don’t stop. Keep going. That being said…
Knowing When to Quit
This completely contradicts what was said above. But you have to know when to quit. People quit too often when they’re down and not enough when they’re up. Poker quickly teaches you to leave your ego at the door. You can’t win or be better than everyone all the time. Similarly in life, quitting may be necessary for you to achieve happiness. Knowing when to do so can save you from yourself.
Playing the Hand You’re Dealt
It’s really easy to get into the habit of blaming your current hand for why you’re losing. But the real bosses in life can take control of their current situation and make the best out of it. Similarly, a good player can make things happen with any hand they’re dealt. That’s not to say that life will throw you lemons here and there; but seeing the silver lining in any situation is a valuable asset.
Winning in the Long Run
People care too much about the big wins (short term), and not enough about consistency (long run). Let’s say someone plays poker every Saturday evening. And in the fourth Saturday of the current month, they win $300. However, they had lost $125 every Saturday previously and are down $75 for the current month. Alternatively, a different person also plays every Saturday night. However, their wins are more spread out. They’ve won an average of $50 per night, netting $200 for the current month. Who’s the bigger winner? The first person will probably get more attention/Facebook likes, but isn’t the money the most important? Slow and steady wins the race.
The Value of Being Perceptive
Don’t be fooled by someone’s poker face. Things are not usually black and white. You have to analyze all variables. Is there a hidden meaning in what someone is saying to you? Realize that someone’s may say one thing, but his or her actions are saying the opposite. Being able to pick up on cues will really help you succeed in life. This is true for friendships, business, and women. Don’t be satisfied with face value of something; dig deeper and you might discover something you wouldn’t have otherwise.
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