Whether I’m a good or poor poker player is for others to decide. That original $250 investment is still buying me games on Pokerstars over two years later.
Pokerstars, however, is a much bigger winner than I, taking a cut of every game I’m in… and I’ve been in thousands.
When I began to play poker seriously, the first thing I learned was which cards to play and what to lay down. Helaine and I don’t always see eye-to-eye on this, but we’re fairly close. And we’re both fairly conservative.
I think the biggest improvement in my game over the past few months has been my skill as a bettor. There have been many fewer instances of my sloppy big bet, aimed at forcing another player to fold, biting me in the tush.
I’ve heard some pros say smart betting is the real secret to no limit Hold’em. There are no firm rules. Each situation is different. Yet I find myself understanding more about the importance of position and when to use a big bet to cut off action before the turn or river card cheapens your hand.
Sometimes I’m still too committed to a hand, even in the face of cards on the board that are surely helpful to others.
I’ve learned a lot. I’ve got a lot to learn.