Whether you play online poker or in a home game, it is important to try and keep that element of fun in the game. Far too frequently we see players get frustrated and go on rants when they are experiencing the ever dreaded bad beat or a similar fate in which the cards were not working in the direction they had been hoping for. It is easy to forget that this game is all about fun, but since there is money involved people will get a little bit touchy when they are not winning.
Of course, we all know the importance of a good mood in anything we do, but sometimes the other players at your table might not feel that they need to be in a good mood or they may just not know they are even exhibiting the signs of someone in a foul mood. Here are some ideas of what you could do to lift the mood when you notice one or more of the players at your table are starting to sour on the game that you are currently playing in:
Compliments
When you notice someone seems to be having a lot of bad hands, one of the things you can do is wait until they do win and jump in with a compliment. Even an admission of their success, such as saying ‘nice hand’ is a lot better than no real support from around the table. You can show your maturity this way and it also might help the player or players who are getting upset at the negative outcomes start to see the positive outcomes they are getting, also. This is a quick fix that can work when things are just mildly bad at a table, but if that isn’t going to work then the next step could well do the trick.
Humor
Yes, comedy is important in poker because it is a social game, after all. What you might consider here before cracking jokes and irritating someone in a bad mood is making a few jokes at your own expense. This takes the focus off of the person who is getting upset and gives them something else to think about. It may not work, but it’s a good start and a better choice in a tense situation than just cracking a joke which may make it appear as if you are making light of what they feel is a very dire situation for their finances. Remember; use humor because it keeps people at the table. You need more money in the pot so this is a great solution to keep people comfortable.
Spotting
If you are at a casino or a home game then you may consider spotting a player some chips or cash if they are having a bad time. It is better to flat out give them what you plan to give them rather than a loan because poker players are notorious about borrowing money. Only do this if you feel the player deserves it and will use it well. It may help them hold out long enough to turn things around, but even if it doesn’t the kindness may help. Playing in an online game? Just wait until that player has a showdown with you, raise appropriately and fold – even if you have a good hand. That is one way to let them take a bit more money so they can keep playing.
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