In the betting world, an unspeakable beast with an insatiable hunger for units gained hides in every crack and crevice patiently waiting for its opportunity to pillage. The innocent victims are aware of its existence, but their inflated sense of self-confidence masks the lurking danger. When the right opportunity presents itself, the dastardly creature rises from the shadows, ruthlessly strikes and leaves an unforgiving wake of ripped tickets and mounted Ls.
The Regression Monster, a bank-draining behemoth all gamblers fear, lurks around the corner.
The tale isn’t some scary bedtime story. The sinister brute is very real. And when it comes to feast, bettors have to endure its wrath. As a result, the levied psychological toll can demoralize gamblers. However, there are ways to surmount the mental humps.
Here are three survival tips for when the inevitable money-taking menace hits.
1. Consistent unit spend. It’s extremely rare for this gambler to double or triple units wagered on a single event, even on a highly enticing offering. Generally speaking, the cash plunked down is distributed evenly. If plus money, 1.00 units are invested. If the juice is -110, then 1.10 units are shelled out. Hey, I like easy math and round returns. If you’re a high-volume action seeker, like me, it’s imperative to not go overboard game by game. So set a budget, stick to it and weather the storms.
2. Don’t go chasing waterfalls. Listen to TLC. Stick to the rivers and lakes that you’re used to. When a cold front sweeps in, don’t try to make up losses in one fell swoop. Again, stay consistent with units wagered. Going full Calvin Ridley by chasing seven-leg parlays to recuperate funds will only accelerate the debt. Stick to the game plan.
3. Keep fighting. Look east tomorrow and the sun will rise again. Breaks are recommended, but when back in pursuit, continue to fire tickets. Unless you’re after ridiculous +3000 parlays in a hapless attempt to take victory laps and generate clicks on social media (by the way, these people are the worst; how much did you lose before that bet cashed?), stay the course. Eventually, the darkness will break. Remember, even daylight returns to Alaska. (Just not in the latest season of “True Detective.”)
Keep in mind: Success in gambling, similar to investments in the stock market or real estate, is all about the long haul. You’re going to have ups. You’re going to have downs. Find a strategy that works for you. Don’t waver. And, most importantly, gamble responsibly.
Hey, this guy is speaking from experience. An unprofessional volume gambler since the early 2000s who currently resides in Siberia (see the spreadsheet: I’m bleeding profusely), I know how wildly the emotional pendulum swings.
Remember, betting is just another form of entertainment. Have fun with it, but realize the challenges and accept the results. Even supposed sharp bettors lose.