The "Zone"

Professionals in sports and poker often talk about "being in the zone". I can recall a time when Michael Jordan found his zone while playing with the Chicago Bulls. He was locked in on the defensive side of the ball, stealing and rebounding with ease. His jump shots were smooth and consistent, allowing him to score at will. In interviews after the game he talked about how the hoop seemed bigger than usual, the game seemed slower, and it was almost easy. When Michael Jordan was in the zone, the other team did not have a chance. The same principle holds very true in poker as well. We've all had playing sessions where our reads were seamless and accurate. During these glorious times we seem to have uncanny timing on bluffs and slow plays. We easily identify the styles of our opposition, and make adjustments to control the table. Before long, our emotions swell and our confidence climbs to its maximum.

The notion of the zone is a bit more difficult to measure within the realm of the science of psychology. With so many variables involved in the complexities of the human mind and sporting performances, it is impossible to identify the exact psychological "recipe" for producing the zone. In poker, the zone may be even more fruitful than in athletic endeavors. With poker being mostly interpersonal in nature, this elevated mental state is sure to assure amazing success. In athletic games, factors such as natural ability, injuries, and fatigue are more likely to interfere.

The elusive zone involves finding our optimal emotional state to play within. Since it certainly involves a confusing variety of psychological states (confidence, patience, attention, focus, perception, etc.) that must align to a perfect mix, I'll focus on one key factor today. To reach the zone we must be at an ideal place on the 'detached to engaged' continuum. You see, many of us assume that we should be totally engrossed in the game. That is not necessarily the case. Being overly engaged can cause us to lose sight of the total picture, as our focus is too narrow. Likewise, very engaged players are more susceptible to tilting and rushing. When immersed in the game, emotionality tends to roll unchecked. Those who are very detached are conversely robotic and emotionless. They tend to get bored and miss the tells that their opposition might exude.

The key is to find your comfortable mental state in the middle of this continuum. We each have our own personal comfort zone somewhere in the middle of the 'detached to engaged' range. We should be looking for a balance which allows for a nice interaction of both of these elements. We should be engaged enough to catch reads on our opposition, yet detached enough to allow for a wide perspective. We should be engaged enough to stay interested in the game, yet detached enough to prevent tilt if our pocket Aces lose.

Please do not fall into the trap of thinking that you cannot influence these factors. You can control your mindset and emotions. I get frustrated by the popular perception that our emotions just mindlessly happen, causing us to be a slave to them. You can influence your emotional levels. You can get yourself closer to the elusive zone. Check your mental and emotional status often, and work to reframe any thoughts that may be hampering you. Before you know it, you'll be making strides toward winning sessions where you are "in the zone".

Note: In addition to being a columnist for many of the top poker magazines in the U.S. and Canada, John is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) in America. He has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from West Virginia University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Lock Haven University. You can arrange for interviews, speaking engagements, or find out more about the psychology of poker by emailing carlisle14@hotmail.com.

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