Poker is a card game that’s enjoyed by millions of people across the world. It’s a fun and exciting way to spend time with friends and family, but it also has some serious mental benefits.

1. Critical Thinking Skills

When you play poker, you’re constantly trying to think of the best move. This improves your critical thinking skills, which can be used in all sorts of situations. It also pushes your math skills in the right direction as you have to calculate odds in your head.

2. Body Language

Poker involves a lot of interaction with other players, and you’ll learn to read their bodies to figure out their cards. It’s a skill that can help you in many other situations, like trying to sell something or giving a great presentation.

3. Discipline

One of the biggest things that separates a good poker player from a bad one is discipline. A disciplined player isn’t easily distracted, acts courteously towards other players, and maintains control over their emotions.

4. Risk Assessment

Another important skill that you’ll learn when playing poker is how to assess risks properly so you don’t suffer fewer negative events. This is a vital skill for leaders and managers to have, as it can help you make better decisions in the future.

5. Loss Acceptance

No one goes through life with a perfect track record of success. They’ll have times when they win and lose, but the truth is that you can always bounce back from a loss. This is a lesson that’s important in poker and in life.