Poker is a card game played by two or more people and involves betting money. It has been around for centuries and is thought to be an ancestor of blackjack, rummy, and other casino games. Some people play poker for fun, others compete in tournaments and use it as a way to earn a living. It is also a great mental exercise that can help with decision-making and improve math skills.

One of the best ways to improve your poker skills is by reading strategy books. There are many different books on the subject available, so take some time and find ones that cover topics you’re interested in learning about. If you don’t want to read books, another good way to learn is by talking about hands with other winning players. Finding players who play at the same stakes as you and starting a group chat or meeting weekly to discuss tough spots you found yourself in can be incredibly valuable. It can give you a peek into their decision-making process and show you how to improve your own.

One of the most important things a poker player can develop is resilience. This is especially true in a live game where the emotions of other players can be very high. A good poker player will be able to step away from the table, take a break, and come back with a fresh mind ready to play well. This ability to learn from mistakes and move on is a key attribute of success in poker as well as life in general.