Since the poker popularity surge of a few years ago (some believe it was brought on by Chris Moneymaker’s big win – I like to think Rounders had something to do with it), people from all walks of life have been seriously considering dropping their day job/life and making a go at being a pro. Either drawn to the money they see on television shows like FullTiltPoker Rakeback or the sexiness of telling people what you do for a living, these folks (and you might be one of them) haven’t really considered what it takes to play the game for a living. “Griding it out,” as the line goes.
So, have you ever thought about it? I have once or twice, but I have no illusions about my abilities when put up against the best in the world, or those who study the game more hours than I’m awake. Because, see, that’s what it takes to even get your foot in the door. You have to study like there’s a midterm every weekend. You need a library of books, and the discipline to map out a training plan online that’ll prepare you for the daunting task of pulling in at least five-figure numbers per year.
Once you get over the hurdle of the possibility of struggling financially (because in poker you have to lose money to make money, usually) you still have to be honest enough with yourself when that one big question comes into play. Are you good enough? If you lie, you’ll lie yourself right into the Motel 6 wondering where you’ll get money for tomorrow night’s dinner.
The point is here, you can’t make it off a dream. Just thinking you’re good enough and plowing ahead on your self-perceived natural abilities might net you a couple lucky nights on Cake Poker Rakeback, but the odds and the other players will get you soon enough. And when you go broke that first time (and you will), the major turning point for you will be whether you can learn from your mistakes, or whether the denial and humiliation of defeat tag team you worse than a couple of lifers in prison.
Grotesque images aside, it’s a serious issue if you’re entertaining such a serious question. Most of us are best enjoying it as a hobby and something we can try to make a few bucks at here or there, but to put food on the table, that’s a whole different call altogether.