I have been playing poker for fun for over 15 years, and I'm starting to get into a rut where it's not as fun as it used to. Does anyone have any ideas for getting out of the rut, or is this just what happens after so many years? Thanks for taking the time to read and reply!

Maybe it's time to step back and try to remember what it was that made poker fun for you to play in the past

Sometimes you just have to take a break. Focus on other things for awhile, when you are feeling it again it will still be here. I have stepped away for up to a year at a time before. It was actually kind of nice.

I also play poker for fun and I have had such difficult times. And in such cases, it best helps me cope, a long break for a month or two.

Originally Posted by ekgbeat

I have been playing poker for fun for over 15 years, and I'm starting to get into a rut where it's not as fun as it used to. Does anyone have any ideas for getting out of the rut, or is this just what happens after so many years? Thanks for taking the time to read and reply!

Win big, that almost always helps to get out of the "poker rut".

Find another hobby and do that until you get the itch to return to poker, which you will most likely.

What is missing to be as good as before?
By answering this question, you realize what is missing and then try to get out of this routine.

Break in the game will not help return your interest! Try 2 ways that help me get the concentration and interest! 1 2, against the limit above (very invigorating) and 2 if the money does not have value then try to radically change the style of igry-- if played carefully Arrange the aggressive dance!

How about a reminder that you are a very good player

Hi mate .If your not enjoying the game these days , maybe a break is needed.It has no sense to play poker just like a day to day routine.Obviously,we all love poker, but there are many other activities you can do.,and when you feel better ,be back to this game.Cheers!

Step away from the game and ask yourself the question, "Why am I playing poker?"
It also wouldn't hurt to ask yourself, "What do I want from life?"

Good afternoon friend
It is natural that after a few years playing poker we get frustrated with some bad bets and also the level of today's players are higher. What I can advise you is to rest your brain a little more, it may be that your thoughts are fatigued about poker, try to go to a movie theater, amusement park, fish, run to dice a little enjoy reading a little about poker there so play again, see if you have improved your game and let us know.

Playing a lot of poker day in and day out can burn anyone out.

Way back before Black Friday, I used to play in another forum's poker league which only played one game on the weekend. We played in teams of which there were 5-6 I think. Every weekend we would try to get as many members of each team to play, usually about 5-6 on each team. You scored points for your team and at the end of the league play time, the team with the most points won and got a private freeroll for real money.

Besides the winners freeroll, all league play was for play money. And you know what? They were a blast! We had a great time. It was called The Bragging Rights League and it was just about having fun.

It's fun to "play" with real money, but it is also stressful. Try something that's just for fun.

Wow, thank you all of the good advice and kind words. Hopefully, I can get back into a good mindset in 2020. It's hard to take a break since I play live quite frequently, and I think that might be part of my problem. Either way, good luck to everyone on the felt.

Originally Posted by freeringo

How about a reminder that you are a very good player

That means a lot coming from you Ringo. Thanks mate!

Originally Posted by ekgbeat

I have been playing poker for fun for over 15 years, and I'm starting to get into a rut where it's not as fun as it used to. Does anyone have any ideas for getting out of the rut, or is this just what happens after so many years? Thanks for taking the time to read and reply!

This best thing would be more study and more satisfaction from improving your game, if your sick of poker go for a run and when you come back you'll be either ready to play or think of your next workout and when you get enough of that good stuff you can spend it on poker or running up a mountain. GL

Hey. If this is entertainment, it’s okay. Especially if you are tired and do not spend your money on it. Change and find yourself another thing for fun.
Another thing is if you constantly spend money on it and it does not bring you pleasure. Just stop playing.

I would courage you not to give up. A break is a nice idea, but trying different games can be too. I was fed up with NLHoldem, than played every kind of poker even 8 game as well. I mixed up, and it helped me to choose the most exciting one at that moment. And I'm always saying, listening tracks can take you such a relaxed mood, so you can have two pleasure at the same time. Just think about your personality, and you 'll find your solution.

A break is a good idea. My first instinct was to suggest learning some of the mixed games. Of course if you already play the mix, that doesn't help.

You can try another variant, like PLO, or HORSE. Just to get the feeling back that it's a challenging game.