Characteristics of Winning Poker Players:
Play, Win, Repeat

by Jordan Jones

July 25, 2009

In any sort of competition, there are reoccurring traits seen in those who excel. Poker is no different. While an athlete’s appearance may give some possible insight to ability, this is far less discernable in the poker world. The following traits are highly dependent upon each other, fitting together as puzzle pieces - depicting a winning player. After reviewing these characteristics, feel free to put them to the test. Can you find a consistently winning player that doesn’t display all of the following?

• Intuition – Successful players often times rely on gut feelings which may transcend rational play, but none the less produce the right decision. This skill lies in the ability to discern a true gut feeling apart from well, the repercussions of eating that hearty Mexican lunch earlier. In all seriousness though, scrutinize yourself and learn to differentiate a mere hunch from genuine intuition.

• Secrecy – It’s easier to conceal cards than emotions. Players who thrive at this game keep a thick veil between themselves and opponents. A small glimpse at your mood might give opponents a small glimpse at your hand as well. Leave the emotions at the door in order to keep foes guessing.

• Flexibility – The ability to adapt to any playing style or scenario is a mandatory characteristic of a winning player. Commonly referred to as “changing gears”, a poker player’s strategy should change as do opponents and settings.

• Realism – Since probability is involved in this game, a skillful poker player should be able to discern when the risk is worth the possible reward. A player who is excessively optimistic usually ends up excessively broke.

• Recollection –The inability to remember opponents’ traits is crippling. A poker player who isn’t tact enough to recall opponents’ previous actions is undoubtedly not going to be keen at predicting future ones. The player unable to look at rivals retrospectively might as well be changing tables after each hand.

• Courage – Despite what anyone says, making a bold face lie with a straight face isn’t the easiest thing, especially when money is involved. In poker, there are no comfort zones. This trait is completely dependent upon all of the others in order to be executed successfully. The bottom line being, there may not be timid professional poker players; however, there are plenty of brave losers. Courage is best used wisely.

• Discipline – Those who make a living from poker treat it as a job. Employees who demonstrate a strong work ethic and ability to go the extra mile earn raises, promotions and recognition. While sitting down at a poker table may seem more casual than clocking in at the office, players who exhibit this mentality during play are able to reap similar rewards.

• Endurance – All poker players fatigue physically after extended hours of play. Although one’s body may grow tired, what separates a mediocre player from an exceptional one is the ability to house an alert mind within a tired body.

Author Copyright © Jordan Jones
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