The Importance of Poker

The Importance of Poker

Poker is not only an exciting game, but also a valuable life skill. Besides putting your analytical and mathematical skills to the test, it also pushes your mental and physical endurance to the limit. Most players are unaware of this fact, but poker indirectly teaches many valuable life lessons. Here are some of them:

Poker requires an immense amount of observation. The ability to recognise tells, body language and subtle changes in opponents’ behaviour is crucial for the success of a player. To achieve this, one must be able to focus and concentrate.

Moreover, poker forces you to make decisions under pressure. You must decide whether to call, raise or fold before seeing the cards that are dealt on the flop. You must also be able to predict the strength of your opponents’ hands. For example, if you have two deuces on the board and the flop comes J-J-5, it is best to raise because you will guarantee a return.

Lastly, poker improves social skills. It is a game where you are constantly dealing with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This helps you to interact with a wide range of people, and it makes you more open-minded.