We hear the word “luck” all the time in poker. Over and over again you see the best hand go up in flames against an inferior hand. So what is variance? Can it be avoided? How do you deal with it?

Variance, by definition, is “an event that departs from expectations.”

Therein lies the key to maintaining your sanity. It is something that we as poker players have no control over. Yet we all must learn to deal with variance at the most in opportune times. The fact of the matter is that no matter how well you play your hand there is no such thing as always. Even if you get your chips in as a 98% favorite your opponent can still hit the one outer to make the miracle four of a kind on the river.

Yes, it stings but only for a moment. A seasoned poker player knows and accepts this as part of the game. He will suck it up and shake the mans hand and move on to the next hand or tournament. It’s all in how you choose to handle yourself at the table. It’s not always easy to be gracious when you clearly have out played someone but it is always appreciated when you’re on the other end and you hit the miracle. So think about that the next time you lose a big hand when your way ahead.

Remember, “bad beats” do not happen to bad players.

Curtis III