While some sports require special physical abilities and skills, poker is a game that can be played by just about anyone. And it’s also a great way to learn how to make smart decisions under pressure. This skill is crucial in business as well, and it’s one of the main reasons why so many entrepreneurs play poker.
1. Teaches you to be disciplined
Being a good poker player requires discipline. Players must avoid rash moves and never risk more money than they can afford to lose. They also need to be able to stay focused and not get distracted by other people at the table. These traits can be applied to any area of life, but they are especially useful in business.
2. Helps you to read people better
Poker is a social game and it’s not uncommon to find yourself sitting at a poker table with a group of strangers. This helps to teach you how to interact with others and read their body language and emotions. It can be a great way to improve your interpersonal skills and will undoubtedly benefit you in both your personal and professional lives.
3. Develops quick instincts
One of the most important skills in poker is learning to think fast and act on your gut feeling. By observing experienced players and imagining how you would react in their situation, you can quickly develop your own instincts. This is particularly useful when assessing opponents’ betting patterns. For example, if you know that an opponent usually folds to pressure, then you should bet less frequently in the future.