How do you manage downswings without losing confidence?

[Henry]

It is a known fact that downswing is a part of poker. I've seen the best players lose for days and even weeks. So, when it comes to managing such situations without losing confidence, what are the measures that you think should be applied? Personally, when I go on a losing track, I take breaks even for a day or two just to recover and feel better. I don't destroy my whole strategies just because of such downswings because I know it is a matter of time before I get back to winning ways. What about you?

 

[Maya]

I think managing downswings is about staying consistent and not overreacting. I’d focus on making good decisions rather than short-term results, take breaks when needed, and remind myself that variance is normal and temporary in any skill-based game.

 

[MRai]

I try not to treat every downswing like proof I’m playing badly, because poker can be brutal even when you make the right decisions. Usually I lower my stakes a bit.

 

[Bawse]

Downswings are expected because of variance. I make sure I’m in a good mindset before I start playing poker. I think it’s vital to control your emotions, and that’ll help you get better results at the tables.

 

[Nomad]

When downswings happen, I instantly move down in stakes so that I can protect my bankroll. I also take breaks so that I can avoid "tilt"