Poker is a game that pushes your decision making skills to the limit, it also tests your patience and mental stamina. It is a game that indirectly teaches you life lessons, here are just some of them:

1. Play the Player, Not the Cards

One of the best things about playing poker is learning how to read other players. It’s an important skill that you can take with you into other areas of your life, such as business and other competitive activities. While many players have their own methods for analyzing other players, the underlying principle is the same: don’t be fooled by a player’s good cards; it’s what they do with them that counts.

2. Know When to Fold

Being a good poker player requires a lot of self discipline. The game can be a whirlwind of emotions, and there is always the chance that you will lose. If you can learn how to accept losses without throwing a tantrum, you will have a much more stable career in poker and other pursuits as well.

3. Be Decisive Under Uncertainty

Poker is a game of uncertainty, whether it’s in the game itself or the financial markets. In order to make sound decisions, you have to estimate the probabilities of different scenarios and outcomes. Developing these skills will help you in a wide range of other areas of your life, such as work and personal relationships. You can practice by playing the game regularly and watching experienced players to develop quick instincts.