Don’t Step Up Until You’re Ready

This applies equally to both cash and tournament games.

We all start out at the low stakes, as low as 1/2 cents at some poker rooms. But pretty soon, we want to ramp it up and win more money. We see those average pot size values at the higher tables or bigger tournament prizes and want a piece of the action.

The problem comes when you move up and suddenly find that the opposition is much harder. At first you might start to play more tight. But suddenly you are punished and you lose some cash pretty quickly. Many people don’t want to move back down the pecking order. They see it as a hit to their ego (I must play games for at least a dollar, not cents!).

A Progressive Approach Will Pay Dividends

The best way to play is to move up the scales only when you are ready. And if you suffer a big losing streak then move back down the scales. As well as taking this excellent progressive approach to your learning, it is also an excellent way to manage your bankroll. Risk more money as you get better and when more rewards are possible and risk less when you are not on your best game.

Remember again, we need to use logic here and not emotion. Here is a good way to implement it.

How And When To Step Up (Or Down)

Make a pact with yourself to win say 3 tournaments in a row at one level before moving up. Conversely, if you lose 3 tournaments then drop back down again.

Or for cash games, you could set yourself an amount to win before moving up. Equally, set yourself an amount to lose that if you reach it, you will move down a level.

Analogy With Motor Racing

You see this happening all the time in motor racing. There are several classes of motorsport with the rewards higher at each stage (monetary and satisfaction from higher racing speeds). However, the competition is also higher, as is the level of skill required.

Drivers frequently drop back a formula for a year or two to hone their skills before trying again at a higher level. And they are usually better off because of it.