Variance in poker measures how results differ from what is expected. In simpler terms, it’s the ups and downs in short-term results because the game involves luck.
You must understand variance because it will help you handle the bad beats and losing sessions. If you accept and understand variance, you won’t tilt that often.
I’ve seen many players who, when faced with bad luck, cannot accept or understand that luck is a natural part of the game. Instead, they blame their opponents and dealers for their bad beats.
Some players go as far as to “play the dealers” instead of focusing on the cards or opponents 😉
They say: ‘I never sit at the table where this guy deals.”
Don’t be one of them.
Accept that luck and variance are significant parts of poker and can significantly impact your results, especially your short-term results.
Here are 11 strategies to help you handle luck better and keep a positive mindset.
*At the end of this post, you will find my Bad Beat Management Cheat Sheet, which I use to keep focused when poker luck is not on my side. Feel free to use it.
1. Poker Variance = Poker Luck. Accept it!
Luck can make your results go up and down quickly. If you see luck as a normal part of the game, it can help you manage and accept it.
Luck makes poker profitable because less skilled players can stay in the game and win occasionally.
If no luck was involved, the game wouldn’t be as fun as the less skilled players would never win, leaving the money only for the best players. Don’t forget what Phil Hellmuth once said:
“If there weren’t luck involved, I would win every time.”
2. Forget it
The best players in the world often say that what helps them win big tournaments is their ability to quickly forget bad beats or variance and focus on the next hand.
I have to admit that it’s not easy for me to do the same. I think about bad beats for far too long, analyzing the lost hand instead of focusing on the next one.
That’s why I started using a bad beat cheat sheet to help me move forward and forget about the bad luck.
3. Look at long-term results
Don’t focus on short-term results; think about poker in the long term. The best players in the world often lose in the short term, but their long-term winnings prove why they’re considered the best.
If you make the right decisions, you will be profitable in the long term.
4. Remember that all players are affected by variance – keep track of bad beats.
Variance and bad beats affect not only you but everyone.
Just because you don’t see other players’ bad beats doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Keep track of the number of times you bad beat other players. You will understand you are not alone in the cruel poker variance world.
5. Don’t think about the result. Think about the decision.
When playing poker, it’s important to focus on making good decisions rather than worrying about the outcomes of each hand. This mindset is crucial not only for long-term success but also for maintaining emotional balance during the game.
6. Positive thinking leads to positive results.
Be content with your decision and avoid focusing on unfortunate hands. This approach helps maintain a positive attitude and prepares you for the next hand.
When I lose a hand due to luck, I remind myself that I made a better decision than my opponent. I attribute their win to luck and affirm that I am the better player, which allows me to approach the next hand with a clear mind.
Concentrating on your decision-making process can help you remain composed and avoid emotional reactions, eventually improving your overall performance. Keep in mind that the objective is to make the best choices possible, knowing that skill succeeds in the long run.
7. Have enough money
Having a lot of money to handle poker’s ups and downs is essential. The bigger your bankroll, the easier it is to deal with variance and potential tilts.
If you have some bankroll rules right now (for example, 100 buy-ins for MTTs), double that, and it will make your life easier when dealing with variance.
Less stress = longer life = more poker
8. Take a break
If you’re not performing well, it’s essential to take breaks. Stepping away from the game, going for a walk, or redirecting your focus can help you feel better and improve your performance. Once you’ve cleared your mind of negative emotions, you can return and continue your session.
9. Join poker community
Joining a poker community can provide valuable support when dealing with the game’s ups and downs.
It can be challenging to handle poker variance and bad beats alone, but being part of a group can help you realize that these experiences are common among all players. It’s a great way to gain perspective and come to terms with the fact that luck is an inevitable aspect of poker. Connecting with others in the community can also offer comfort during difficult times.
10. Play less hands
During downswings, it’s beneficial to play a tighter hand range. This can help minimize variance, even though it might lead to a slight reduction in potential earnings.
You can stabilize your results by avoiding marginal spots and focusing on playing hands with a clear edge. This conservative approach can effectively maintain your bankroll during challenging periods and rebuild your confidence.
11. Take Responsibility for Your Results
You can’t control the cards or luck, but you can control your reactions and decisions.
Taking responsibility for your play helps you learn and improve. Instead of blaming the dealers and fish at your table, focus on playing better in the future. This mindset helps you shift from feeling like a victim to becoming a more responsible player, allowing you to improve your strategy and decision-making process continually.
Summary and helpful resources to deal with variance
It’s important to be mentally prepared and make strategic adjustments to handle the lows of poker more effectively.
Understanding that luck and variance play a role in poker is crucial. It’s important to have a positive mindset and find satisfaction in making good decisions rather than just focusing on the number of chips won.
Here are some additional resources to help you deal with the bad beats and variance:
Variance and bad beats books and courses
Here are also some books and courses I can recommend you to deal with the mental part of poker:
Courses
- Elliot Roe’s ‘Focus Professionalism and Dealing with Downswings’Â (in depth review)
Books
- The Mental Game of Poker by Jared Tendler
Your Bad Beat and Variance Management Cheat Sheet
I have created this bad beat and variance management cheat sheet so I can deal with it like a pro, decrease the tilt time and increase my winnings. You can print it and stick it on your wall or keep it in your wallet. Anytime you get a bad beat or face variance, follow the instruciotns in the document and you will play the next hand with a clear mind. You don’t have to do all of it, as soon as you feel better, return to the table.Â
Download the Bad Beat Management Cheat Sheet (PDF)
If you are more of a digital poker player, you can download and save the Bad Beat Management Cheat Sheet Infographic on your mobile or PC.
If you feel ready, go back to the table and continue playing.
Join Our Community
Connect with fellow poker players, share your experiences, and get support on our FB Forum.
Do you know more ways for dealing with variance? Share your methods with us in the comments below.
