Psychological Questions in Poker

In personal development, a person should not be directed, commanded, or indoctrinated; instead, they should simply be given the opportunity to see and understand for themselves [what a thrill it is when understanding comes]. And here [in personal development], one of the most important roles is played by asking the right questions. It is important to mention that our brains function like a very precise supercomputer and can find the answer to any question. Questions are one of those forms that greatly allow for the expansion of human consciousness.

What is most important when asking a question? First of all, sincerity with yourself and the courage to hear the truth and accept it. Some questions are so unpleasant that we find thousands of reasons to avoid them, whether it's a lack of time or simply saying, “that's complete nonsense.” Secondly, but no less important, is the direction of the questions. Questions can be directed inward or outward, towards the cause and towards solutions, for example: two very common and typical questions: Why?? and How?? Why – focused on finding reasons, outward [I remind you that the brain finds answers to all the questions it is asked]. The question “why” is one of the questions that leads to the victim role!

To make it easier to understand, let's take the simplest example: let's say a beginner player is in a small loss and asks himself two different questions, first: “why am I here?” and second: “how can I get out of here?” In the first case, the brain looks for a reason, looks for someone to blame, to justify oneself. Even a “good” answer like “because I'm a beginner” is just a simple excuse. What other answers come up when asking the question “why”? Maybe it's just a bad run? A lot of bad beats, coolers, opponents are fish and call with anything, maybe something is distracting you from playing? Exams? A session? Or maybe a girlfriend who wants more attention? Yes, really good excuses 😉 Or maybe you've reached a level where it seems like the poker room is “rigged,” where it seems like everyone is conspiring against you and everything is set up to take as much money from you as possible. What are the answers in the second case: “how can I get out of here?” In this case, the focus is on the solution. It doesn't matter who is “to blame” for the current situation. A way out is sought and the answer “because you're a beginner” is no longer satisfying. When I ask myself such a question, I hear the answer that I need to set poker goals, follow bankroll management, take breaks, register in some poker forum, discuss, post hands, watch poker videos, read poker books, find a poker coach, etc. In short, a multitude of positive answers that lead to a completely different future than the answers to the question “why?”.

I think this is one of the essential questions for improvement. Not only in poker, you should constantly ask yourself, how can I be better? How to demonstrate better play? How to win a tournament?? and other variations.

I recommend those who want high results to ask this question regularly, for example: every week, or after a certain number of tournaments, or so. To reinforce the topic, I recommend watching the “Brilliant” video: how to improve in poker the fastest.

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