Tip #21 - Don't play when you can't focus on the game

Poker requires constant attention and focus. Playing while distracted - whether by watching TV, browsing the internet, talking on the phone, or multitasking in other ways - is a recipe for making costly mistakes. Every hand contains important information that you need to notice and process.

Here's what you might miss when you're not fully focused:

• Betting patterns that could reveal hand strength
• Timing tells from your opponents
• Changes in opponents' playing styles
• Important table dynamics and interactions
• Opportunities to exploit opponents' mistakes

Common distractions that hurt your game:

• Watching TV or streaming shows while playing
• Playing multiple tables beyond your ability to track
• Engaging in social media or browsing websites
• Having lengthy conversations while in hands
• Playing in noisy or chaotic environments

To maintain proper focus during sessions:

• Create a dedicated playing environment free from distractions
• Take regular breaks to maintain mental freshness
• Limit the number of tables to what you can comfortably handle
• Turn off phone notifications and other interruptions
• Stay engaged in the game even when not involved in a hand

Remember that every hand you play costs real money, and every mistake can be costly. If you can't give the game your full attention, it's better to wait until you can. Professional poker players treat the game like a business - they wouldn't try to conduct important business meetings while watching TV or browsing social media, and neither should you try to play poker that way.