Tip #46 - Don't play scared after a bad beat
Bad beats are an inevitable part of poker, but letting them affect your subsequent play can be extremely costly. Many players start playing overly cautiously after a bad beat, missing value and giving up profitable opportunities. Understanding how to maintain proper strategy despite recent losses is crucial for long-term success.
Signs you're playing scared:
- Folding strong hands to normal raises
- Not betting for value with good hands
- Avoiding confrontations with certain players
- Making smaller bets than usual
- Playing fewer hands than optimal
Problems caused by scared play:
- Missing value with strong hands
- Becoming predictable to opponents
- Giving up profitable opportunities
- Losing respect at the table
- Compound losses through weak play
Guidelines for handling bad beats:
- Focus on making correct decisions
- Remember that variance is normal
- Take a break if needed
- Maintain standard bet sizing
- Stay confident in your strategy
As Phil Ivey famously said, "The key to success in poker is to maintain the same level of play regardless of your results. Bad beats are part of the game. If you can't handle them, you can't handle poker." Remember that every great poker player has experienced terrible beats - it's how you respond to them that determines your long-term success.