Do people make resolutions and stick to them? Come on now. We make resolutions on January 1st with all good intentions. They represent hope – change for the better – improvement. Here are twelve gambling resolutions for the new year, courtesy of the Casino Answer Man – John Grochowski. Please note John’s acknowledgments at the end of his article. Here are New Year’s Resolutions for Casino Gamblers.
Thank you again, John.
New Year Resolutions for Casino Gamblers – Part 1
1) Stay within your Bankroll!
Know what you can spend. Suppose you have a winning session; great! Stick to your limit. When losses approach the amount you’re willing to spend, slow down. Take a timeout, get a snack – people watch! If you hit your limit, it’s time to stop.
2) Don’t bother people near you- Respect other players’ space and focus.
Do your homework and learn the games. And don’t be a pain in the #$% to the dealer and staff. Remember, keep the unsolicited advice to yourself.
3) Learn how to play games:
A little homework goes a long way in helping to cut the odds against you at casino games. Learn the basic strategy in blackjack, and for each video poker game you play. Know the rules and best bets in craps. No matter your game of choice, buy a book and read about the best playing strategies. If you have to ask a stranger about the game or machine, chances are you shouldn’t be gambling.
4) Keep part of your winnings:
Your winnings are just that – YOUR WINNINGS. So on any sizable win, but at least half of it away. Even better, keep part of your winnings for your next session.
New Year Resolutions for Casino Gamblers – Part 2
5) Log your gambling.
They are keeping track of your gambling. Time spent, casinos visited, promotions used, and money won/lost are the things to log. In addition, patterns of losing play, or machines played, indicate that changes are needed.
6) Play only with money you can afford to lose:
This is obvious. Play with money budgeted for gambling, not for life’s necessities.
7) Never chase losses:
Never play past your Bankroll to overcome losses. You’re never “due” to win, and wins and losses don’t have to even out in the time we play. A losing streak means it’s time to ease back or quit, not bet more.
8) Don’t use credit card cash advances for gambling money:
Think the house edge is high on some games? Try comparing it to credit card interest rates. The house edge added to interest on borrowed money and ATM fees- a formidable combination to overcome. Bring your cash, or get your marker from the casino if you’re a big player. Hide those credit cards and ATM cards in your car.
New Year Resolutions for Casino Gamblers – Part 3
9) Go easy on the alcohol:
Don’t let alcohol make your judgment fuzzy. If you want a drink while playing, that’s your business. Have a good time, but keep a clear head, too.
10) Keep perspective and play for fun:
Keep perspective and play for fun. Gambling in a casino is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Only a handful of blackjack and video poker players have the skill, discipline, and bankroll to enable them to make money in the long run. Most of us will lose more than we win at any game. Most players are best off treating losses as the price of admission for a day’s entertainment. Casino gambling is a form of entertainment, a way to have a good time. Remember, it’s not about luck or casino conspiracies – it’s all about math + science = house edge.
11) Pay attention to TITO Tickets and belongings in the casino.
Be careful with your money. Some look to take other players’ money, TITO vouchers (TITO = Ticket In, Ticket Out), purses, and more. That’s their job! Be careful out there and be aware of those around you.
12) Be more aware of my Rewards Account.
Remember, all reward clubs have different rules. For example, 1 point in one club equals $1, but other clubs have 100 points equaling $1. Take advantage of Players Club promotions – especially 2X & 3X (or more) points days. Be aware of when your points expire.
Related Post – Casino Comps and “Average Daily Theoretical”
I’m sure there are more. Whatever your resolutions, I hope you keep them as long as possible. I hope your New year is prosperous – make this year the best gaming experience yet. Get that royal!
Syndicated columnist and “Casino Answer Book” series author John Grochowski’s news and views on casinos and the games we play. For nearly 25 years, John Grochowski has been one of the most prolific gaming writers in the United States. He’s been ranked ninth by GamblingSites among the top 11 gambling experts at Gambling Sites, and his Video Poker Answer Book was ranked eighth among the best gambling books of all time. John’s twice-weekly columns appear in Casino City Times, Atlantic City Weekly, and several websites. In addition, he has written six books on casino games, including the “Casino Answer Book” series.
That’s all for now.
Binbin