There’s no doubt about that, some people are just better at poker than others. They appear to be winning consistently and apparently so. So this leaves a lot with some questions lingering in the mind.
Could poker be just a game of chance with no other power to play on other than the fickle Lady Luck?
What makes a good poker player a great poker player?
Is there a way in which I can become a more successful poker player?
If these questions have you at one time or another, then you are certainly not alone. Millions of average poker players want to improve their gaming skills, and there are tons of products out there selling every day that promise to make you a better poker player. Poker players and wannabe poker gurus spend hard earned cash every day learning the one secret that will turn them into poker pros in twenty-four hours or less.
Let’s face it, if skill came in a can, and Lady Luck in a bottle, we would all be poker pros. Unfortunately, just improving your holdem game isn’t as easy as opening a can or bottle, but don’t lose hope, there’s something you can do.
The main problem that plagues holdem players is a lack of focus. Focus is the key that can turn a mediocre poker player into a successful poker player. When a player loses focus, they will definitely lose the game to someone who has kept them.
The main causes of losing focus at the holdem table are:
Focusing on the talk rather than the game of poker: Talking during play is without a doubt the hardest habit to kick, and is the biggest consumer of our holdem time of attention. Holdem chat time is something to be expected, especially among friends, so it’s hard to stop without appearing rude. The tone drops over time, and you will see your holdem winning streak increase.
Focus on food rather than the game of poker: Food is important for all human beings, it is a fact that we are all familiar with. However, food should not be your focus when playing poker. Instead of munching during the actual game, grab something to eat before play begins, and during breaks in play. The focus off food leaves more focus for poker.
Focusing on alcohol not on the game of poker: Now here’s where I’m going to lose some of you for sure. If you really want to improve your holdem game, leave drinking alcohol to post game chatter. A clear mind places smart bets, and also puts you at an advantage over your drunken poker pals.
Focusing on personal issues not on the game of poker: We all have problems at one time or another in life. Bringing them to the holdem table doesn’t help anyone but your opponents. If you have something urgent on your mind and can’t put it aside, then leave poker for another time. This may sound a little harsh, but it’s the truth.
Focus on local distractions: This can be anything from your friend’s bad wig, a distant barking dog or the tv upstairs. Filter out the importance of non-ambient poker. Forget wigs, dogs and tv. It’s holdem time buddy, let’s get down to it!
Focus itself is a skill. Skills can be developed over time if you practice diligently. The five focus thieves we discussed will kill your holdem game if you let them. By developing a razor sharp focus, you can cut them before they become a persistent problem.
