Is Chasing Losses Still the Most Expensive Mistake in Poker?

[Nomad]

You might have realized almost everyone knows it’s bad, strategy to chase losses, however, it keeps happening with a lot of people. How often do you find yourself chasing losses, why cannot you stop yourself even when you know it might be the most expensive mistake. What mental triggers push players to ignore bankroll rules after a losing session?

 

[1stop]

From what I’ve seen, yes, and not just in games. It happens to our life in general. When people try to recover fast, they make worse decisions. I’ve watched friends get frustrated and double down emotionally, and it never ends well.

 

[Scorpion Girl]

Yes chasing losses is definitely up there as one of the worst mistakes you can make. When you are down and desperate to get even you start making terrible decisions playing weak hands, betting too aggressively and throwing good money after bad. It's emotional rather than strategic.

 

[Bawse]

I never chase my losses. You will broke, if you move to bigger stakes trying to recover losses in most cases. You can get lucky/run good, but I wouldn't recommend. You will go broke, because you will repeat these habits, and lose it all when the losses add up.

Discipline, and bankroll management defines a winning player more than skill does. If you play solid, you'll win more than you lose.