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and the lights continue to come on (long)
I have been "playing" online poker and NLHE for a few years now. My dad introduced me to 7 stud as a child, which really comes in handy these days in HORSE, but that is another post altogether. Anyway, I took a very common route of depositing money, playing way over my head and promptly running my BR down to $.14. Yes that is 14 cents. You may commence laughing now. My personal financial situation was such that I was unable to re-deposit, and I'm not one to throw good money after bad. So I was relegated to freerolls and play money tables. This went on for a few years. I was playing occassionally as work would allow. I placed ITM in a tourney or 2, won and lost some .50 sitngos and my bankroll was now hovering around $2. I found myself learning. Slowly and the hard way, but learning. Through all of it, I came to realize that I really love the game.
A few months ago, I found myself with way too much time on my hands. Unable to work legally in a new country and really ready to get more into this game I love. I recognized how bad a player I am, but that I also have qualities that would enable me to become better. Maybe even good enough to make a little money. They say to "do what you love and the money will follow". I'm ready to test that theory out.
For me, the first step to learning is reading. I couldn't afford to buy any of the books that are recommended, so I was limited to the internet. 'Limited' is not a word I would use to describe what I have found online for free. There is a vast amount of knowledge and many people willing to share their insights. I found another forum that I won't name here. I read through it and found a few gems, but if I had to describe it in a few words it would be "overblown egos in a giant pissing contest". HOWEVER
there was a mention of a site called "perform poker". Wherever my journey along the poker road takes me, I will always remember finding that site (and this one through it) as a turning point.
This guy says I have no game. He is right! I suck! But I am teachable.
I read everything on the site. I played the 19 hands method. I started keeping a journal. I started managing my play money BR as if it were real. I dropped the "what the hell they'll give me more" attitude. I learned that the psychology of poker is only partly about the psychology of other players, it is much more about MY psychology. I am recognizing traits in my own personality that lend themselves well to playing good poker, and others that might present obstacles. But those I am willing to work on.
These days, when I get up from the table, if I feel I played every hand to the best of my ability, win or lose, I feel good about it. And I'm learning more every day. Soon I hope to translate this into more real money experience. To start off slowly, and see where it goes.
so thanks aok, and the rest of you guys here for all your insights and help. I'll quit rambling now...that is all....
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