Dealing with Poker Losses

Unfortunately, if you play the game of poker, you are going to lose at one point or another. Some losses are not a big deal, but others can leave you devastated, especially if you were sure the pot was yours. There are a few things you can do to help deal with devastating poker losses and move on to the next game.

Get Mad

Don not try to avoid the anger and frustration that comes with a poker loss; it is all a part of the game. Allow yourself the time to get mad and let your frustration out. Exercise for 30 minutes, go for a run, play your favorite video game-- whatever you need to do to vent the frustration. As long as you are using a healthy method to let go of your anger, you are good to go.

Refocus

After you have vented, you need to refocus and get your head back in the game. Realize that everyone--even professional and highly successful poker players--loses sometimes. Accept it and move on, utilizing the loss as a way of learning. Do not allow the loss to stay with you and do not assume that you are somehow cursed; just realize that each loss is a step closer to the big jackpot.

While losing is never fun, it can be used as a learning experience and can help provide you with the knowledge you need to be a successful poker player. Get frustrated, let it out, and then refocus so your head is back in the game and you have high chances of winning the next game.