The Decision

A few weeks have elapsed since my last blog and decision day is here: "Will Chewey stay in Denver?" In the time since my last Vegas tournament, I have had much time to reflect and ponder on what I would like to do with poker and my future. It's easy to get addicted to the fast life and luxuries associated with poker/gambling lifestyle. Money management, discipline, selection skills, even-temperament and instincts are some of the traits that are necessary for a successful poker player. The most important lesson learned this year in my travels is not what you do when things are going well; rather how you maintain yourself when things are not going so well. It is better to let the bad beats go and to learn from your mishaps then to dwell on your misfortunes.

In my last tournament, I played some of the best (Levels 2-4) and worst poker (Levels 1 & 5) of the year. At times, I looked like a complete idiot and at times I was pure genius. My temperament at times was non-existent and I wore my emotions on my sleeve. There are three important guidelines to follow when preparing for a tournament: Rule #1: if you are not all there, then chances are you have no business being there. Rule #2: Trust your instincts, don't second guess. Rule #3: At the table, nothing else matters-only your play matters. Follow these three guidelines and you will be better prepared mentally for a tournament. Tournament poker is hours of boredom and sheer seconds of terror. Can you analyze when "All-In" is announced or will you get caught up in the moment?

In order to succeed, you must be willing to fail. In order to learn, you must be observant. You can't win a tournament with just one hand, but you can lose a tournament in one. To succeed, you must prepare. When preparation meets opportunity, a chance for profitability exists. I was not prepared in my last event but promise to be better prepared for future tournaments.

Decision day is here and Chewey will stay in Denver for the near-term. 2008 is near and its all about the poker. 2007 was mixed but very needed to test my desire. I have been fortunate enough to experience the thrills of being a lucky gambler for the year. It is better to be lucky than skilled in the short-term but for the long-haul skills allows you to meet luck.

My next event is Dec 21 at Harrah's- Las Vegas "75k On the River Invitational". Where one streak ends, another begins. December 18: Chewey's pre-tournament coverage begins. For my friends and family that have fallen this year: HB, RT & EH. One more time before 2007 ends: "Chewey's Corner"

The Cards Are Here, Are You?
Chewey