This Blog for 2010

For 2010, I have decided I want to do somethign with this blog as a way to help keep me motivated to always be working on improving my game. The best thing about 2009 was my latest downswing in a way, because my attitude got so poor that I was seriously debating giving up on poker entirely. My desire wasn't there anymore, I was playing exclusively for results (or lack thereof), because I want so badly to do well to help my family. This is a difficult thing to admit, because in my opinion, I really feel it is one of the worst things a poker player can ever do. It leads to poor play much easier. It leads to a dislike for the game and leads to just a negative outlook in general, not just with poker.

However, when I took some time to step away from the game, I realized how much I missed it, even though it was a short period of time. I do truly love to play poker. I love that it always forces me to be analytical and think about the various levels of poker, based on what level I perceive my opponent to be thinking on. I love how I can manipulate people into doing what I want them to do based on my hand and their range of hands. I love the way it forces me to work on myself and my mental game. One of the beauties of this aspect of improving my game is that I know it helps my mind frame away from the virtual felt. In fact, at a New Year's Eve party last night, I had someone comment to me how calm I seem nowadays. This was interesting given that I am coming of my worst mind frame with poker to date! lol But it is nice to know good things come from my efforst in all aspects of my life.

I want to start doing weekly updates, most likely done either Sunday evening or Monday morning. I want to grade myself on a few things. I will make a list like what is below and honestly grade myself as a way to keep myself focused on always trying to do my best. If I am doing my best, then that is what counts. Although I think if people were honest with themselves, I'd be all but a few of the people I associate with regularly say they truly give their best efforts always. It is just such a difficult thing to do. That is not an excuse though, just a wake up that people should notice and strive to do their best always. I think I will grade myself on these things:

• Mental Game
• Studying
• Preflop Play
• Postflop Play
• Focus

If I can think of more to put on this list, I will do so. If I feel that some are not important, I will remove them. I will allow myself to post more often than once a week if I feel the desire to make a post, but I think this is something that could really be beneficial to me. I hope you all enjoy following this blog!