what's my problem?

[rycelover]

I usually play 1/2 NL or 2/5 NL at B&M or home games and have been successful on average. However, when I'm not playing well during a particular session, I would prefer to break even for that session rather than walk away with a small win (less than $50). Also, I would prefer to bust out completely and loose my buy-in during a session, rather than walk away with a few chips (less than $50) and cutting my losses.

Does this mean that I play poker because I like the thrill of a challenge and risk taking more than for the sake of making money?

If it was purely for making money, then I should choose to leave when I'm ahead or cut my losses when I can, but I consistantly choose to do the complete opposite. Why?

Discuss please.

[kyleb]

Subconciously you divide the hours you've played by the amount of money you've won. When it's a small amount, you think to yourself "Gee, I only netted $2/hour - people working at McDonald's do better than this!"

When you break even, you think: "Oh well - at least I got out by breaking even and not losing anything!"

And when you lose money, you think: "Man, that was a terrible downswing. It happens to everyone, I guess."

I know because I used to think the same way. My advice: Play hours, not results.

[z80x86]

Masochism??

Well no one plays poker for specificially one reason. It's always a combination of reasons; perhaps the thrill of an intellectual challenege is more important to you than the money involved. I'd try to change that attitude towards your performance at the end of each session though. Money saved is worth as much as money earned!

[imported_bingobazza]

Im no expert, but I think you need to feel an emotion swing from poker. Either a big high when you win, or a big low when you lose. Anything in the midle doesnt seem to fulfill your 'needs'.

Bingo