Why I Play Poker

This isn't purely my blog, it's a family affair.  I've been hogging the limelight for a bit, so it's only fair to give Mike a turn.  One of the biggest questions we're asked is why on earth he would choose to be a professional poker player with a family to support. Here's the answer:

Why I play poker…

First and foremost, if you would choose to do your “job” regardless of money, you will have happiness and success.  Poker is something that I am passionate about, and that enables me to be successful.  To be successful at anything you must be fully committed to it.  I love playing the game.  I love learning about the game.  I love teaching the game.

How often do people dread waking up for work?  I did.  For the last 6 years before poker, it was typically in the 5 o’clock hour.  Now, I choose my hours.  I don’t have to lie about feeling sick when I want to go to my daughters Thanksgiving Feast.  I don't have a routine.  This flexibility has allowed me to be the father and husband that I want to be.  I have been blessed to spend countless hours with my family this last year.

Next is the constant exercising of my brain.  It is a challenge, a challenge that keeps me going.  I’d venture to guess that 25% of my time goes into reviewing my play and how to make it better.  A successful poker player has to always be a good decision maker.  The biggest downfall most excellent players make have to do with emotions, not how well they play.  There is a quite a bit more pressure playing as a full time job, and a couple of keyboards and my desk have felt the same frustrations that I feel occasionally.  I am aware of this and constantly look for ways to avoid these pitfalls.

Finally, I’m proud of what I do.  It is hard work and not as glamorous as some people think, but I am the envy of many that aren’t happy with what they do.  Poker has created friendships for me and the poker network has no boundaries.  It is something that so many people love to do and I hope that my dream can last a little longer.

Me, too, Mr. Poker Pro!  If you're a blogger yourself, you might be interested in this tournament being hosted by PokerStars.  Click on the link for more information.

I have registered to play in the PokerStars World Blogger Championship of Online Poker! The WBCOOP is a free online Poker tournament open to all Bloggers, so register on WBCOOP to play.