[tek]

If you think you have potential, then don't give up. Money lost in the beginning of a career (whether poker buy-ins or entry level pay) will receive dividends if you persevere.

I used to compete in amatuer bowling tournies. When I first began (probably a little too soon...) I was just overwhelmed by the competitions' ability and speed of play versus league speed. My cuts were big minuses (bowling and golf have opposite cuts, so in bowling you want a plus cut score).

But I kept on practicing (with guys with high averages), reading books, watching PBA telecasts, and took lessons. It all paid of and I started hitting the finals regularly.

Same with poker. For awhile I couldn't make a final table to save my life. Soon I was making final tables regularly.

Now I am starting to play cash games in addition to tournies. The learning process begins again...