Addicted to Soul Reads

Scrolling through social networking platforms, it becomes apparent that poker hands the most captivating stories shared by poker players often involve what is referred to as a 'soul read.' These extraordinary moments, like making an impressive fold or executing a daring call, seem to stem from an almost instinctual understanding rather than a methodical poker strategy. For example, calling with a king high when the board suggests danger, or the unforgettable large laydown in the film Rounders showcases moments that lead onlookers to wonder, 'how did you foresee that?'

These hands are popular in many poker strategy These narratives are frequently highlighted in articles, becoming deeply ingrained in the culture of poker. They are particularly thrilling when we observe them on screen, knowing information that the player lacks—will they decipher the truth? The adrenaline rush from executing a successful soul read can be more rewarding than the chips won in the pot. Notably, many renowned players have achieved fame not solely for their overall achievements but for the iconic hands they’ve played on television. Everyone remembers Chris Moneymaker's iconic bluff against Sam Farha, Phil Ivey along with his highly publicized battles against Paul Jackson, Jason Mercier's dramatic call at the EPT, and the countless instances where Daniel Negreanu displayed his talent for reading opponents’ tells accurately.

The aforementioned instances underscore some of the most notable poker footage where players bombard their audience with astonishing soul reads.TheseThese remarkable hands captivate us, especially new entrants in the poker world, who are often filled with enthusiasm. motivated to learn allowing them to pull off their own successful soul reads. However, while the thrill of landing that first intuitive read is exhilarating, it can also pave the way for unhealthy habits. Many players I’ve conversed with find themselves in a cycle of reliance on soul reads, attempting them so frequently that it becomes detrimental. Experts suggest that one reason for Phil Hellmuth his success lies in the extraordinary lengths that novice players might go to challenge him. The few successful attempts become part of his highlight reel, encouraging thousands of other players to pursue similar strategies against him.

Given the variability and incomplete information inherent in poker, it’s simple to persuade oneself that a poor decision ended up being a beneficial choice. In this light, a poorly timed soul read can be as misleading as making a play because luck seems favorable or playing above your bankroll with the expectation of winning. Here are several justifications poker players might use for high-risk bluffs or dramatic calls:

​

• Projecting a particular table image can benefit them, portraying themselves as either overly cautious or wildly unpredictable.
• Deliberately crafting their bluffs to come across as more credible, pot committed if re raised
• Gambling will loosen up the table
• they might possess 'tilt equity' since their opponent may react irrationally when they win that hand.
• Wanting to get revenge on someone
• The information gained from calling where making a call based on a tell can justify short-term losses as worthwhile.
• A miscalculated bluff opens the door for opponents to adjust their strategy thereafter.
• They desire to elevate their status in the eyes of their peers.
• Making the call can serve to remind their opponents to refrain from bluffing in the future.

​

To be fair, these points can all be solid reasons to decide your moves. These justifications should not always be viewed as valid excuses for poor calls. It's crucial to discern whether you are executing a sound soul read aimed at long-term profitability or if you are misstepping. Even experienced players who frequently make accurate soul reads based on tells occasionally misstep.

Regardless of how often this issue arises, the initial step toward rectifying it remains the same. Examine situations in which you neglect poker strategies, make incorrect decisions, or force a poorly thought-out soul read. Do these occurrences typically happen when you're fatigued, have lost emotional control, or simply feel disengaged? What aspects do you neglect to analyze correctly? Is it more prevalent when you're winning or losing money? Create a detailed account of the scenarios where you feel compelled to force a soul read, the justifications you lean on, and how your decision-making process falters. Review these regularly; training your mind to recognize when an ill-timed soul read might lead to errors will help you avoid making detrimental choices. mental game of poker If this method proves effective for you, then there isn’t a core issue at play. However, this isn’t the case for everyone. No matter how skilled you are, if you find yourself caught in the impulse to enact a soul read, you are probably chasing the euphoric rush it provides. Your primary objective may shift from maximizing profits to achieving the thrill associated with a soul read. Even if it might not align with your overall strategy,

They possess 'tilt equity' as their opponents may lash out emotionally when they emerge victorious in that hand. common poker tells and costs you a lot of money to get one.

​

To effectively address this challenge, it’s essential to delve into the reasons driving your pursuit of that thrill. Does executing a hero call boost your sense of self-worth as a player? Are you seeking validation from others in the poker community regarding your skills? Does it provide a sense of superiority over your opponents? Do you find that it justifies the time invested in honing your poker skills? Is there pressure for others at the table to recognize your prowess? Do you strive to escape the feeling of being outplayed, whether through another player’s successful bluff or when your own attempts get swiftly called? Reflect on these questions prior to your next session and again after you feel the temptation to make a significant play. poker strategy Questionable Reasoning: Self-Assessment Is Key to Avoiding Pitfalls

Appreciate Variance Before Being Critical of Yourself poker games Confusing players at the same table can elevate the tension.

​

Jared Tendler, MS, LMHC is a licensed therapist who specializes in sports psychology and is recognized as a leading expert on the mental aspects of poker. Over nearly a decade of coaching poker players, he has collaborated with over 500 individuals from more than 45 countries, including several top competitors in the field. He is also the author of two acclaimed books on the subject, 'The Mental Game of Poker 1' and 'Poker 2.' more personal Jared Tendler, MS, LMHC is a licensed therapist specializing in sports psychology, recognized as a foremost authority on poker’s mental game. For almost ten years, he has coached many players, totaling over 500 from more than 45 countries, including numerous leading figures in the gaming world. He has also penned two widely praised books covering this area: 'The Mental Game of Poker 1' and 'Poker 2.' [add link to our book review section].

888poker-EGR-logo-Mobile-Header-2021-white