Poker is a game of chance and strategy in which players place bets against one another. The game starts when all players must ante (the amount varies by game, our games are typically a nickel). Then each player is dealt cards face down and the betting begins. The highest hand wins the pot.

Poker helps you learn to read the table, evaluate your own hand and others’ hands, and make sound decisions. This type of critical thinking can help you in other aspects of your life.

The game also teaches you to be patient. In the fast-paced world we live in it is easy for anger and stress levels to rise, but if you don’t control those emotions then negative consequences can follow. Poker teaches you to be patient and keep your cool in stressful situations.

The game also encourages flexibility and creativity. You have to be flexible with your strategies and creative in order to find unique solutions to complex problems. This can benefit you in your professional life and personal life as well.