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Professional Poker Players Share Their Secrets for Maintaining Emotional Balance
StrategyDecember 14, 2025·1 min read

Professional Poker Players Share Their Secrets for Maintaining Emotional Balance


Craig Tapscott interviewed professional poker players about maintaining emotional balance and interest in the game. Here are some of their insights.

Elliot Roe's Long-Term Focus

Elliot Roe advises focusing on the long-term profit rather than individual sessions. He emphasizes the importance of considering only the monthly or quarterly profit, not the result of a single hand or session.

Andrew Lichtenberger's Perspective

Andrew Lichtenberger believes that poker is not always the main cause of psychological problems for players. He suggests that other life issues, such as relationship problems or financial difficulties, often play a bigger role.

Matt Berkley's Discipline

Matt Berkley emphasizes the importance of discipline and routine in maintaining mental stability. He shares that his daily routine, which includes exercise, sauna, and walks with his dogs, helps him stay calm and focused.

Maria Ho's Meditation

Maria Ho finds regular meditation and focusing on positive moments helpful. She also stresses the importance of having a support system outside of poker.

Josh Arie's Gratitude

Josh Arie credits Elliot Roe's system for helping him maintain a positive outlook. He also advises avoiding negative influences.

David Peters' Long-Term Thinking

David Peters focuses on long-term perspective and positive thinking to maintain balance. He reminds himself of past successes and the bigger picture.

Jamie Gold's Preparation

Jamie Gold highlights the importance of preparation, nutrition, and hydration for mental health. He uses advanced recovery methods to support both physical and mental well-being.

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Argus Riven

I've spent years at the tables — cash and tournaments — and just as long shaping poker copy behind the scenes: room reviews, bonus fine print, tournament notes. At PokerInsider I write the way I wish more sites would: clear structure, honest trade-offs, no hype. Whether you're new or already grinding, I care about what the offer actually costs you — rake, variance, and the fine print — and I treat responsible play as part of the job, not a footnote.

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