Steering Clear of Overconfidence in Poker
Because it is such an emotional game, a vital part of any Poker strategy is keeping yourself under control not just when you are losing but also when on a winning streak. Although the reasons for self control when losing are evident, not so much so is that when you are winning, but they are vital nonetheless.
What you need to understand is that in Poker, everyone is constantly trying to improve their game. You may be at the top right now, but if you become overconfident and slacken your training, you will be overtaken by the others players, for sure.
Ask any pro player, and they will tell you, the only way that you can stay on top after getting there is to never lose aggression and always look for ways to improve your Poker strategies and techniques. Remember the saying: "Poker is a game that only takes a night to learn, but a lifetime to master."
Secondly, if you are just starting out, do not make the mistake of thinking that just because you have read on every Poker strategy and tutorial guide on the Internet, that you are going to clean up the tables and mow down the opposition. The fact is that it is one thing to read, and totally different when you are actually playing.
The reason is that when actual money is at stake, the pressure will be there, and how well you perform under pressure and make decisions on the spot, will be the key to your success. You will get that from playing, not reading.
You should also realize that there are a lot of Poker variants out there, and what you use for one game may not necessarily apply to another . We are not just talking about different games like No Limit, Omaha and 7 Card Stud, but also cash games, tourneys, full ring games, short handed, heads up etc. You may be well versed in one kind, but not in another.
If you feel you know everything because you are winning in cash games, try playing in a tourney, and you will things are very different and you are likely to struggle.
The way to keep winning in Poker is to play consistently. It does not matter if you win or lose, because as long as you play it right, you will make money. A lot of players who win become loose and ultra aggressive. Avoid that, and just keep playing correctly, look for ways to improve your game, and you will be a winning player.