Poker: Do you know how to manage expectations?

In the world of Poker, the success doesn't just depend on the letters you receive, but also the way you manage to managing your expectations. The ability to maintain a healthy balance between ambition and realism realism can determine not only your performance at the tables, but also your long-term personal satisfaction. Let's explore in detail how poker players can properly temper their expectations to maximize their potential and achieve consistent results. 

The Meaning of Expectations in Poker

Expectations in poker are players' hopes and anticipations about the results of their sessions or tournaments. From the hope of achieving certain financial results to the expectation of making the right decisions during a crucial hand, expectations are always present in players' minds.

However, it is important to recognize that expectations can vary from player to player and even from session to session, depending on various factors such as experience, skill and the context of the game.

source: psychology spot

The Risks of Excessive Expectations

Although the expectations can serve as a source of motivation and focus, expectations can also represent a significant risk if they are not managed properly. Placing too many expectations on certain results or situations can lead to frustration, anxiety and even to tilt, this is detrimental to the player's performance. It is therefore crucial to find a healthy balance between ambition and reality in managing expectations.

Strategies for Moderating Expectations

1. Caution in Anticipating Results

Avoid pinning all your hopes on specific results, you don't want to get too hung up on the final results, like winning a tournament or reaching a certain profit. Instead, focus on playing your best game every hand and every session, without getting too hung up on the final results.

2. Assessment of the Process

Remember that the road to success in poker is a a continuous path of learning and growth. Instead of focusing only on immediate results, appreciate the process of developing your skills and strategies over time.

3. Flexibility and Adaptability

Accept that things won't always go according to plan in Poker. Stay flexible and adaptable to changing scenarios and adversity you may encounter along the way. The ability to adjust your expectations according to the reality of the game is essential for long-term success.

And now to action!

Define Objectives: according to what I've defined, what tasks can I create? Which process objectives?

Finally, don't forget, it's a continuous and individual process, with self-perception and constant adaptation

Here is a list of articles that can help you in this process:

1. Poker Performance - SMART Objectives
2. General Tips for Dealing with Tilt
3. Tips for Poker Athletes: How to manage emotions and behavior?
4. Poker: 7 Strategies to Improve Your Mindset

In short, expectations play an important role in the world of poker, as they influence not only the players' performance, but also the overall experience of the game. By recognizing the risks of excessive expectations and adopting effective strategies to moderate them, this way, players can maximize their potential and enjoy a more rewarding poker experience. 

The sports context is very demanding on a psychological level, especially in high-level competition!

Because of its characteristics, it causes psychological pressure, the stress and anxiety are constantly associated. That's why our athletes are accompanied by professionals of excellence in the areas of Mental Coaching and Psychology who prepare and guide them to deal with negative emotions and develop their confidence. Join our community!