Paying Attention
Considering that poker is practically just as much about focus as it is about getting good cards, I’m constantly amazed at the lack of attention that many players give to the game they’re in during a session, both live and online. If you spend your time at the table eating, watching the poker room TV or chatting up other players instead of watching the game, you are missing potentially valuable information that could have a dramatic effect on your effectiveness against your opponents.
For example, don’t you want to know who the player is at the table that always calls but never raises and constantly lays down their hand before showdown? Of course you do, because if you get caught up in a heads-up situation with them, you know that he’s going to fold to a bet if his hand is weak, and at best he’ll just call. On the other end of the spectrum you need to know who’s doing a lot of check-raising, or who appears to love to trap other players with big hands. Knowing other players table habits is key, especially if you’re going to be stuck at the same table with them during a cash game for hours on end.
Really the only suggestion I can make if you’re not taking your game seriously is to understand that the reason you should be playing poker with any kind of consistently is if you’re in it to make money. That goal requires determination and focus, the kind of focus that enables players to sit in a chair for 5-8 hours, playing maybe just a few pots, but completely aware at all times what’s happening at the table. Poker is a game of odds and advantages, and while you may not be able to change the odds, you can definitely add some edge to your game if increase your overall awareness during a session.
