With the New Year coming, many people, including poker players, make resolutions to improve various aspects of their lives. However, how effective are such resolutions for poker players? In this article, we look at what goals poker players set for themselves, why they often fail to achieve them, and how to make resolutions more effective.
Poker players, like many others, strive to improve themselves. However, their goals are often related not only to their personal lives, but also to the specifics of the poker game. Here are some of the popular resolutions that are discussed on forums such as Reddit:
- Stop making obviously losing calls just to make sure your opponent has the nuts.
- Play exclusively with money earned from poker, building a bankroll “from scratch.”
- Move up to a new limit or get out of a prolonged downswing.
- Get rid of tilt and learn to end the game in time.
- Improve your skills without having to force yourself to learn.
- Some even declare their intention to quit poker completely, but this promise is often short-lived.
Famous player Benjamin “bencb789” Rolle is skeptical of New Year’s resolutions: “If something is really important, you don’t wait for the calendar – you start taking action right away.”
Read also: Mike Matusow Documentary – The Complicated Life of a Poker Legend.
Why do New Year’s resolutions often fail? Research shows that only 9% of people successfully keep their New Year’s resolutions. The main reasons are:
- Incorrect goal formulation. Many resolutions are negatively worded, such as “don’t tilt” or “stop losing.” Such goals focus on avoidance rather than achievement, which makes it difficult to create an action plan.
- Vague. Statements like “better at playing” or “win more” are too general and do not provide specific direction.
- Unrealistic. Inflated expectations lead to disappointment and abandonment.
- Social pressure. In 2024, 62% of Americans admitted to feeling pressured when choosing resolutions.
To increase your chances of success, follow these tips:
- 1. Set Positive Goals. Try to set goals that require action rather than avoidance. For example, instead of “not losing money,” set a goal of “improving bankroll management and getting into the black.”
- 2. Clarify Details. Goals should be specific and measurable. For example, instead of “earn more,” specify the amount you want to win and the deadline.
- 3. Start Right Away. Don’t wait for the right moment — start taking action right now. Even a small step in the right direction increases motivation.
- 4. Use Trackers and Apps. Apps for monitoring habits or planning a budget will help organize the process of achieving goals. Record your progress and analyze the results.
Read also: Poker Predictions for 2025 – New Formats, Private Games, and Big Changes.
Despite the challenges, New Year’s resolutions can be a great tool if you approach them correctly. Think about what is truly important for your development and start working on it today. By using a strategy of specific and achievable goals, you can not only improve your skills, but also build confidence in your abilities. Go for it, but stay realistic! Success in poker is not only a dream, but also the result of systematic work on yourself. Where is the gambling industry headed? Discover expert predictions in casino future trends. Find more on our site.
