Tilt - Poker’s Four Letter Word

by Jordan Jones

July 13, 2009

Whether poker is considered a “sport” is a very debatable topic. Those who argue in opposition claim playing poker lacks the physical exertion needed to qualify it as such. It’s true, poker is a game played by the head, not the hands – okay pun intended. In all sincerity though, a good poker player mentally off kilter would be no different than a good basketball player who suddenly begins to play like a rookie. This example may sound a little farfetched, honestly though, is it? This has been leading up to the topic of poker’s four letter word - tilt. Tilt is a state of mental anguish that a poker player stumbles into usually due to a series of bad beats, taunting, plain old frustration, or perhaps circumstances beyond the poker games green felt.

Poker players on tilt often use poor judgment, incoherent strategies and fail to accurately monitor poker opponents. Never-the-less tilting is a dangerous situation to be in, the detrimental effects usually begin to surmount then snowball. Since the importance of avoiding tilt has been stressed, here are a couple pointers for reconciliation if you find yourself starting to lean.

1. For starters, be honest with yourself – no one knows your poker playing style better than you. Let a flag go up if you experience any of these signs; inability to fold, playing normally discarded hands, hastily drawing conclusions. Identify this monster for what it is and stop it right in its tracks. Don’t find yourself the underdog in an all-in then have a belated epiphany. The bottom line is the ability to recognize when you are tilting so the fire can be put out before it spreads.

2. Do whatever possible not to broadcast it, remain consistent in your poker body language. A player visibly on tilt is like watching a wild life documentary where one limping gazelle begins to fall behind the herd right as the sun sets. Observant opponents will seize the opportunity.

3. Surprisingly as it is, many poker professionals are seen wearing headphones for this exact reason - and you thought they were just passing time? Listening to music can filter out irritating poker table talk after a bad beat and also provide inspiration. However, be careful to let this strategy only serve as a positive distraction.

4. Don’t be afraid to sit out for a few minutes if the situation is appropriate. During poker tournament play or when your poker chip count is in dire straits may not be the best time. After a bad beat, players on tilt will sometimes play strings of reckless hands. This is of no comparison to having a couple blinds posted while you were just cooling down or getting a drink etc.

Interestingly enough, tilt can be a double edged sword. Look for poker opponents who seem to be off their game and display characteristics of erratic play. In the same regard, make sure not to display the very indicators that gave your tilting opponents away. At the poker table, emotions should be disregarded just as quickly as a poor hand.

Author Copyright © Jordan Jones
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