Most people who have played the game of poker already know how fun and exciting it is. But did you know that your time at the tables can also help you develop numerous critical thinking and interpersonal skills?
The fact is that poker makes us take stock of anything and everything around us. From the size of an opponent’s bets to how a person looks when they are bluffing to your chatty neighbor who shuts up every time they are in a hand, playing poker increases our observational skills.
And playing at a place like the WPT Global provides ample opportunity to fine-tune these talents. Here are just 5 of the many examples of how poker can help you develop these life skills.
1. It Improves Concentration and Focus
There is zero debate about the fact that to play quality poker, you must pay close attention to every detail at the table. This is everything from people’s behavior to the changing of the board after each street to how many chips everyone has in front of them. Learning to be more observant will help you in every other aspect of life.
2. You Learn Emotional Discipline in Changing Situations
A game of poker is an ever-evolving process. Current players will get up and new ones will be seated. Your chip stack will likely fluctuate continuously throughout the game. And the value of your hand can change with the turn of any card. Being able to stay even-keeled through all of this is a skill you can take with you at work, home, or anywhere else.
3. It Helps Develop People-Reading Skills
In poker, many times you find people behaving in all different sorts of manners. Some people try to be the “table captain” and control all the action. Others sit quietly and pick their spots. Some folks bluff too much (or not enough). But all of these things offer you the opportunity to learn how to spot “tells” in people and anticipate their future actions. This is an invaluable tool in daily life.
4. You Learn Impulse Control
Places like World Poker Tour online provide a great opportunity to learn and practice self-discipline. Not just in financial terms, but also in how you play the game itself. It teaches you to be patient when patience is called for, as well as to be bold and aggressive when necessary.
5. You Develop Better Social Skills
It seems like these days there are a lot of people who could use a lesson in the finer art of socializing. Being in a laid-back, relaxed environment and enjoying a shared hobby is a great way to make conversation and gain friends.
Grow Your Game and Observational Skills Playing World Poker Tour Online
There is no need to jump in the car and drive out to a crowded, smoky casino when you can enjoy all the fun and excitement of poker right from the comfort of your own home (or anywhere else). And with stakes to fit any bankroll, there is no reason you can’t get started today!
