bad beats bankroll downswing mental game tilt variance Poker pros discuss practical strategies for recovering from devastating losing sessions and extended downswings. Learn how to manage tilt, accept variance, and maintain mental health during poker's inevitable bad runs through proven techniques. Accept variance before sessions start. Use physical activities to reset mentally. Separate poker identity from self-worth completely. Mental Recovery Strategies: Research downswing percentages before playing higher stakes to mentally prepare for worst-case scenarios Engage in physically intense activities like football or heavy weightlifting that require 100% focus to reset your mind Build recreational activities into your weekly routine, not just as emergency medicine after bad sessions Watch for tilt warning signs like using absolute terms: "always," "never," "they never bluff" Accept potential losses before each session starts rather than resisting the possibility during play Seek coaching sessions after brutal weeks - either get reassurance you're playing well or find actual leaks to fix Remember that identity attacks feel worse because poker represents social and financial risks to family and friends
