mindset mental game bankroll variance In this video, James Sweeney addresses the frustrating experience of playing well in poker but still losing due to variance. He offers advice on maintaining a positive mindset, avoiding tilt, and improving your mental game. Sweeney emphasizes the importance of careful hand analysis, understanding common tilt triggers, and addressing physical factors that can affect mental performance. He also recommends resources for further study on poker psychology. Poker downswings are common and happen to all players. Maintaining a strong mental game is crucial for long-term success. Avoid assuming you're playing perfectly and carefully analyze all aspects of your game. Beware of negative thought spirals and focus on improvement rather than dwelling on bad luck. Overcoming Poker Downswings Recognize that all players experience periods of running badly Analyze entire hands, not just the final decision points Avoid the "cursed" mindset to prevent a downward spiral Understand common tilt triggers and their effects on your play Journal your tilt experiences to increase self-awareness Consider physical factors like sleep, diet, and exercise Utilize resources like Red Chip Poker for mental game improvement