Poker is a game that puts many of your analytical and mathematical skills to the test. However, it’s also a game that indirectly teaches you some important life lessons.
1. Teaches you how to make decisions under uncertainty
Unlike most other games, poker is a game where you can’t know exactly what cards are being dealt or how your opponents will bet or play with them. As such, a good poker player needs to be able to estimate the probability of different scenarios and choose the best one for their situation. This is an important skill to have in business and in general.
2. Teach you how to read other players
A large part of poker involves reading the tells that your opponents give off. This is not just subtle physical cues (like scratching your nose or playing nervously with your chips) but more often comes from patterns in their betting. For example, if an opponent is making big bets but folding most of the time it’s likely they have a strong hand. On the other hand, if they’re only making small bets it’s probably because they have a weak one.
3. Teaches you how to be disciplined
Poker requires a lot of focus. This is why many people don’t play well; they can’t concentrate and their mind starts to wander. This is why it’s important to practice your concentration and be able to stay focused. In addition, poker teaches you to manage your bankroll and not risk more than you can afford to lose.