Want to be a Professional Poker Player? Better Have a Backup Plan

(Photo: Worldpokertour.com)

Is becoming a professional poker player your dream and ambition? Do you fantasize about winning WSOP gold bracelets and oodles of money while traveling the world on the poker circuit?

It certainly sounds like an appealing lifestyle. Having the freedom to do as you please, avoiding the mundane existence of a 9-5 job, and not having to answer to any bosses.

But if the idea of turning pro has been dominating your thoughts as of late, perhaps you should heed the advice of a number of top poker players. Some of the world’s best pointed out that it would be wise to have a backup plan just in case that goal of becoming a professional poker player doesn’t pan out.

(Photo: Cardplayer.com)

What’s Your Plan B?

JC Tran got the ball rolling with a tweet advising players hoping to make the big time in poker to have a ‘Plan B’ at the ready.

Big advice for anyone who wants to play poker for a living: Have a backup plan! Poker is tougher than ever before. Good luck!!!

— JC TRAN (@jctran23) December 13, 2016

That opinion was shared by Daniel Negreanu, who wondered if Tran had a backup plan of his own prior to starting out.

Good advice. What was your backup plan when starting out? Or do you think it was so much easier back then that you didn't need one? https://t.co/Yo13CRUfIa

— Daniel Negreanu (@RealKidPoker) December 13, 2016

(Photo: Pokerstars.com)

Tran admitted that he did not, reasoning that poker was considerably easier back in the early 2000s when he began cashing at live events. The game has certainly changed a lot since then, with players having much more information available to improve their skills, as well as being willing to put in the time and effort to do so.

An even more cynical view was put forth by Mike “Timex” McDonald, who replied to Tran’s tweet by advising new poker pro wannabes to find another way of making a living entirely.

Advice for anyone who wants to play poker for a living: don't. You missed poker's window of opportunity but keep your eyes open for others https://t.co/fFuD2dkIUU

— Mike McDonald (@MikeMcDonald89) December 13, 2016

(Photo: Cardplayer.com)

I wonder how many rookies will disregard the pros’ advice and try it anyway without a viable backup plan.