|
Most online poker players, play at home or even at work when the boss isn’t looking, but to be successful and to make online poker profitable, it is important to minimise distractions when playing. Some things may not seem to you like distractions and many of you will say that "it’s how you like to play" or "you play better like that". Any distraction is bad and if you are serious about playing poker online, then you must minimise all distractions in order to be focused and successful. You may not realise it but there are so many distractions at home and the most common ones are simple to avoid and will help you keep concentration on your game, inevitably improving your game and becoming more profitable. Turn off the telly and the radio Always turn off the telly and the radio as these are things that beg your attention, even if it’s on a subconscious level. Your mind is reacting to the voices and reacting to what it hears. It may be a movie, TV show, advertisement or radio program. It does not matter, it’s a distraction that you do not need. Even if it’s just your favourite show or the top ten, the words and voices take way from your concentration. I have found that the best thing for me is classical music. Most of you think that’s lame, I know, but it’s a proven fact that classical music increases brain stimulation and speeds up the thought process. But if you're not into classical then just play something you like or find relaxing. I also like to play reggae and 80's music but hey, that's just me. Turn the phone to silent If you’re in a game and someone calls you even for a moment, your mind is still processing and thinking about whatever was said. You may arrange to meet later at the pub. Seems harmless enough, but in your mind your thinking about what to wear or if that babe will be in the pub tonight. Put the phone on silent and you can reply to all your calls and text messages after your game. Dangerous waters! No Surfing It’s the most common of all distractions. You’re on the computer so why not do a little surfing? Well it’s simple, if you are surfing you’re not paying attention and missing out on important information. You cannot go against an opponent if you know nothing about them. While you’re surfing he is playing a hand and giving away tells and info on how he plays. This is the sort of info that makes the difference between pulling off a bluff and getting trapped. Do not Disturb At home you may have other people like your wife or girlfriend, (or boyfriend if you’re a girl or that way inclined. I hope that’s the politically correct way to put it today I never can tell so sorry if I offended anyone). My point is this, if you have people there then they are a distraction. You mum calling to see if you want any tea. Then the tea comes and you get an earful about how you need to get out and find yourself a nice girl and blab la blab la.... on and on! You get where I’m going? This is enough to piss anyone off, and you don’t need it when you’re trying to focus on a game. In conclusion I just want to say that the best thing you can do is minimise as much as possible any and all distractions while playing poker online, even if it means taking your laptop to the shed at the end of the garden. If you cannot away from distractions for one reason or another, then don’t don't play today. Just go to the pub and play tomorrow when things are better. Andreas Kythreotis 21st September 2010 |
