Poker requires you to make decisions under uncertainty – estimating the probabilities of different outcomes and scenarios is key. Learning how to make good estimates will improve your decision-making abilities in all areas of life, not just poker.
Poker teaches you to control your emotions, especially stress and anxiety. It also teaches you to conceal your emotions, which is an important skill when dealing with other players at the table. You cannot let your opponents see how excited or nervous you are as it may give away clues about the cards that you have in your hand. This ability will benefit you in your social and professional life.
The game of poker also helps you learn to be patient. Being able to wait for the right opportunity will help you in other aspects of your life, including finance. It also teaches you to manage your money more effectively by knowing when to bet and how much to bet.
You will also learn the value of a good hand, which is defined as two cards of matching rank and three unrelated side cards. If you have a good hand, it is likely that your opponent will call your bets and that you will win the pot. A bad hand, on the other hand, is likely to make you fold and lose your money.
Playing poker will require you to expend a lot of brain power. Therefore, when the game is over, you will likely feel tired and exhausted. The mental and physical energy that you expend will help to clear your mind, making it easier for you to fall asleep.