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Poker Coach Alex Fitzgerald On Filling The Holes In Your Gas Tank

“Be aware of the holes in your gas tank.”

These words, seemingly mundane at first glance, hold profound wisdom. They resonate not only in the context of poker but also in the intricate game of life. It’s basically telling you to be cognizant of weaknesses you may possess in life or in your poker game, and then work towards plugging these holes.

Poker Headrush coach Alex Fitzgerald wrote an email to everyone regarding this topic, and we’re only summarising that for you today. So, let’s delve into this metaphorical gas tank and explore how it applies beyond the green felt of a poker table.

1. The Waiting Game

Poker, they say, is primarily about waiting. Patience is the currency that separates the seasoned pros from the impulsive novices. Imagine sitting at the table, your chips stacked neatly, and the cards dealt. The temptation to act impulsively—to make rash decisions—is ever-present. But here’s the truth: if you can’t gut it out and wait, you’re already at a disadvantage.

Life mirrors this waiting game. We’re often faced with choices—some urgent, others less so. The ability to pause, assess, and strategize is akin to folding a weak hand in poker. Rushing into decisions blinds us to better alternatives. So, be aware of the holes in your life’s gas tank—the moments when impatience clouds your judgment.

🙋‍♂️Are you struggling with calling on the river too much?

Slow down.

So many people play better when they force themselves to take ten seconds on a decision.

— Alexander Fitzgerald (@pokerheadrush) February 25, 2024

2. Rationalizing Glaring Mistakes

“Most people could play winning poker.”

Indeed, most of us possess the potential for success. Yet, we stumble. Why? Because we’re masters at rationalizing our missteps. Just as poker players justify their questionable moves after the fact, we weave intricate narratives to soothe our egos. “I called that overbet because the flush draw missed,” we say. But deep down, it’s not about the cards; it’s about our emotional state.

Consider the player who’s losing both at the table and in life. Their home life is chaotic, and the felt becomes an escape. They play not for strategy but to feel better about themselves. J.P. Morgan’s words echo, “A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason.” Recognize your real reasons, even when they’re uncomfortable.

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3. The Holes in Our Gas Tank

a. Playing Above Our Bankroll – In poker, playing above your bankroll is perilous. When money becomes too significant, rational thinking flies out the window. The same applies to life. Financial stress clouds judgment. So, perhaps keeping that day job—where dollars and cents matter less—allows you to play life’s hands more effectively.

b. Sleep Deprivation – Late nights glued to screens—sound familiar? Sleep deprivation is a gaping hole in our metaphorical gas tank. Fatigue impairs decision-making, blurring our mental edges. Just as a poker player’s bleary-eyed stare reveals vulnerability, our own exhaustion leaves us ill-prepared for life’s challenges.

c. Personal Drama – We all know those who dive headfirst into personal drama—the kind we should steer clear of. Imagine their phones buzzing incessantly at life’s table. Relationships, family feuds, unresolved emotions—they drain our energy. Plug these leaks. Guard your emotional reserves.

d. Stress and Coping Mechanisms – Stress—the universal companion. How do you cope? Some walk, others lift weights, and a few pour their hearts into journals. These routines are our fuel additives, preventing stress-induced breakdowns. Just as a well-maintained car runs smoothly, a well-nurtured mind navigates life’s twists and turns.

4. The Ultimate Bluff: Self-Deception

“You do not want to become one of these players.”

Indeed, we don’t. But self-deception is the ultimate bluff. We convince ourselves that our gas tank is full, even when it’s leaking. The key lies in self-awareness. Acknowledge your holes—the impatience, the rationalizations, the fatigue, the drama, and the stress. Then, patch them up with intentionality.

Remember, life’s poker table isn’t about winning every hand; it’s about playing wisely, learning from mistakes, and embracing the waiting game. So, my friend, be vigilant. Keep an eye on those holes. And may your gas tank carry you through life’s unpredictable journey, one well-calculated move at a time. If you perform poorly on a specific occasion, avoid making excuses. Instead, take a reflective journey through your day and week. Analyze the factors that contributed to that performance. Then, consider how you can improve for next time. 🚶‍♂️🔍📆

And for similar updates from poker coaches around the world, stay tuned to GutshotMagazine.com. Follow us on our social media handles. We are present on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Telegram.

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