10 Qualities Of Successful Poker Players

“Anyone can beat anyone. That’s what makes poker the best game in the world.” (Phil Ivey)

While anyone can get lucky and win a couple of sessions or a tournament, true success at the poker tables comes from consistently making smart decisions and performing well. So, what separates the mediocre poker players from the great ones? In this article, we will explore the 10 qualities of successful poker players and how they use these qualities to consistently come out on top. From excellent bankroll management and discipline to long-term thinking and emotional intelligence, these are the characteristics that set successful poker players apart and allow them to consistently crush the games. Enjoy!

1. Successful poker players are excellent at bankroll management

One of the key qualities of successful poker players is their ability to manage their bankroll effectively. This means being disciplined about how much they invest in a single game and being prepared for losing streaks. They understand that poker is a game of variance and that they need to have enough money in their bankroll to weather the ups and downs. They avoid games that are too large in relation to their overall bankroll, and they are careful not to put themselves in a position where one big loss could ruin their entire bankroll.

Successful poker players know that managing money well not only preserves their bankroll, it also helps protect their emotional well-being. This allows them to stay focused and make better decisions, increasing their chances of success in the long run.

2. Successful poker players know how to manage their emotions

Successful poker players understand that emotions can be a double-edged sword at the table. While it’s natural to feel excited when holding a strong hand or frustrated when things aren’t going your way, letting your emotions get the best of you can lead to costly mistakes.

They know how to keep their emotions in check and make rational decisions, even in the face of stress or tilt. They are able to maintain a level head and stay focused on the game, rather than letting their feelings cloud their judgment. This ability to manage their emotions is a key factor in their performance at the poker table, as it allows them to make sound decisions and outplay their opponents.

Successful poker players adopt mindset management routines like mindfulness, physical exercise, or journaling as part of their daily routine to maintain peak performance. These strategies help them process information more effectively and deal with challenges or setbacks.

3. Successful poker players have an empowering view of failure

Successful poker players recognize that failure is just a natural part of the game. They don’t let setbacks get them down or discourage them from continuing to play. Instead, they view failure as an opportunity to learn and improve. They are able to stay positive and keep a long-term perspective, knowing that each hand is just a small part of the bigger picture.

This empowering view of failure allows them to stay resilient and keep pushing forward, even when things aren’t going their way. It also helps them maintain a growth mindset and stay open to learning new strategies and techniques. Overall, having an empowering view of failure is a key quality that separates great players from those who are unable to bounce back from setbacks.

4. Successful poker players have a long-term mindset

Successful poker players think about the long game and don’t get too caught up in short-term results. They understand that poker is a game of variance and that they will experience both winning and losing streaks. Rather than getting too excited or discouraged by the outcome of any one hand, they maintain a long-term perspective and focus on making decisions that will benefit them in the long run. This long-term mindset allows them to stay focused and avoid making impulsive or irrational decisions.

5. Successful poker players are disciplined

Successful poker players are disciplined in their approach to the game. They stick to their strategies and they know that poker is a rough game and there is little room for the undisciplined. They understand that discipline is key to long-term success, and they are willing to put in the hard work and effort required to improve their skills and increase their edge at the table. This discipline is evident in their bankroll management, as they are careful not to risk more than they can afford to lose. It is also reflected in their ability to avoid tilt and maintain a level head, even when things aren’t going their way.

Disciplined poker players are experts at putting off immediate gratification in favor of long-term success. They view their poker goals as a marathon, not a sprint, and they are willing to endure short-term discomfort in order to achieve their long-term objectives.

6. Successful poker players are doers

Successful poker players are proactive and take action rather than waiting for things to happen to them. They are constantly working to improve their skills and increase their edge at the table. They are not content to just sit back and hope for the best – they are actively seeking out ways to learn and grow as players. This doer’s mentality is evident in their commitment to continuous learning and their willingness to try new strategies and techniques. It is also reflected in their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and make quick, confident decisions.

7. Successful poker players are always learning

Successful poker players understand that poker is a game that is always evolving, and that in order to stay competitive, they need to stay up to date on new techniques and strategies. Their dedication to continuous learning is a key factor in their success, as it allows them to stay ahead of the competition and consistently crush their opponents.

Remember to always consider yourself a student of the game. As soon as you adopt the attitude of a know-it-all, you lose your mental edge.

8. Successful poker players cultivate a positive attitude

A positive attitude is the foundation of a healthier approach to poker.

Successful poker players understand the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, both at the table and in life. They know that a positive outlook can be contagious and can help them stay focused and motivated, even in the face of setbacks. They work to cultivate a positive attitude by staying optimistic and focusing on the things they are grateful for. This positive attitude helps them stay resilient and keep pushing forward during downswings. A positive attitude is the foundation of a healthier approach to poker.

9. Successful poker players don’t obsess over money

Successful poker players understand that money is just a by-product. They don’t obsess over it or let it cloud their judgment at the table. Instead, they focus on playing the game well and let the money take care of itself. This allows them to stay focused and avoid making mistakes. It also helps avoid becoming overly fixated on short-term results. By not obsessing over money, successful players are able to maintain a long-term perspective and make consistent solid decisions, rather than just chasing after quick profits.

10. Successful poker players take responsibility for their results

Successful poker players understand that they are ultimately responsible for their own long-term results at the tables. They don’t make excuses or blame others for their mistakes. Instead, they take ownership of their actions and learn from their mistakes. This responsibility is reflected in their willingness to accept constructive criticism and seek out opportunities to improve.

By taking responsibility for their results, successful poker players are able to stay accountable and make better decisions, increasing their chances of success in the long run. Overall, taking responsibility for their results is a key quality that separates successful poker players from those who are unable or unwilling to learn from their mistakes and make positive changes.

Conclusion

To recap, successful poker players are excellent bankroll managers, take responsibility and learn from their own mistakes, they think long-term, focus on the process and not on the money, they are doers and are always looking for something new to learn and they also approach poker with a positive attitude.

If you embody these characteristics, you are likely already a successful poker player, or well on your way to becoming one. If you feel like you are missing a few of these traits, don’t worry – they can be cultivated with time and effort.