Recently, I learned how to play the game of poker. Specifically, texas holdem. When I learned how to play I understood why this game is so popular. It is not a game of pure luck, there is also a good amount of skill involved in playing the hands. Even if you receive cards that won’t win, you can still win. This can happen with the skill of bluffing, being uncertain whether your opponent is lying or not. If you play well and do not reveal your mental state or emotions, the bluff will most likely work. If you look like you’re bluffing or your opponents notice you only play when your hands are good, then you will be predictable and unable to bluff. The objective of the game, besides winning all the poker chips, is to throw off or confuse your opponents so they won’t be able to read you. This creates an uncertainty of whether you’re bluffing or not, making them more likely to fold or give up for the round. This skill will ultimately allow you to win more often, even with bad hands; which in turn will lead to victory.
I have many reasons why I learned to play. My family always plays poker during family get-togethers and I am always bored with nothing to do. If I can play poker with them, I won’t be so bored. I also like the concept of the game, victory can be obtained through deceit rather than pure luck. The joy of taking risks is another reason I like the game, the only way to win is to bet a lot. I am still quite the amateur at bluffing though, so I have a low success rate, but I feel really good when I do win from bluffiing. I personally really enjoy the game and the competitive atmosphere it creates, especially when a decent sum of money is bet. If you don’t know how to play, but you like taking risks and gambling; I suggest you learn to play. If you think you are excellent at confusing and outsmarting people; you should also learn to play. If you are very competitive in nature; then you should really learn to play. Don’t blame me if you lose large sums of money though, I am just trying to spread the joy of a game I love.
Life, Laziness, and Lessons 