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Feature
The Seven Habits of Highly Unsuccessful Gamblers
by Michael Shaye, WINNERonline.com
16 July, 2004

There are seven things all players have done at one time or another to ensure they left the casino down before they even turned on their computer. They're the Seven Habits of Highly Unsuccessful Gamblers -- each one a proven way to give money to the casino.

1. Drinking

How can online casinos afford to hand out cash bonuses like candy? Because they don't you drinks. It's no secret drinking impairs your judgment, yet players insist on having that extra cocktail. There is nothing wrong with indulging in your favorite beverage while enjoying blackjack after a hard day's work. But drink to excess and you'll lose your wits, you patience and your money. Know when you've had enough.

2. Chasing Even Money

Players who chase the dream of breaking even when they are down big are the casino's best friend. Face it, other than to enjoy yourself, you gamble to win money. Set limits before you start playing -- both how much you are willing to lose and how much you realistically think you can win -- then stick to them. If you're cold, turn off the computer and try another day.

3. Hunch Betting

There's a nickname for hunch betters … broke. Hunch bettors ignore the odds and bet on instinct. For games like blackjack and video poker where perfect play is possible, determine perfect play and stick to it. Every time you deviate because you "feel" something good is going to happen, you're giving odds to the house. And the last thing they need is more help taking your money.

4. Revenge Betting

If you bet recklessly and above your limit after a string of bad luck so you can "teach the house a lesson," you're revenge betting just making things worse. Remember; the only lesson the house knows are the math lessons that dictate that it, over time, walks away the winner every night. Keep your cool.

5. Trying New Games

Sure, Sic Bo looks like fun and exotic. But if you're new to the game, play it in practice mode before risking your cash. Any time you learn a new game, you're going to make dumb mistakes. There's nothing wrong with playing for fun, but don't give your money away.

6. Betting Too Much

Trust me; it's easy to get down a few bucks and up your bets with the hope of earning your bankroll back. But the best way to lose more than you can afford is to bet more that you can afford. Bet, win and lose within your limits. This also counts if you hit a winning streak and begin betting above your normal limits. If you're up, you're not playing with the house's money, you're playing with yours.

7. Losing Focus

So often you'll hear players not be able to remember what happened during a night of big losses. Gambling is hypnotic … so much so that it is easy to lose your focus and concentration during play resulting in bad decisions. Lack of concentration is possibly the biggest bankroll killer in the casino. Pay attention, have fun, and if you're losing focus, take a break or call it quits for the night.

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