Sunday, March 29, 2009

Why Bet?

The post I did about Paul Merson a few days ago may came across as hypocritical on my part as I was disgusted with the way a gambling addict was endorsing a gambling product.

The possible contradiction on my part may have been because it could have mistakenly seen as a sentiment against gambling. That was not my intention when I wrote what I did. The intent was to convey the double standard set by the ex-footballer. Remember, this is the guy who profited from his addictions by publishing his autobiography - Rock Bottom -and is now profiting from the industry that almost ruined him

Merson was the hypocrite, not me.

I'm not addicted to gambling, either.

I occasionally get asked what do I get out of gambling and it's often a difficult question to answer.

If you had asked me earlier this decade, I would have given you a different reply as to what I would now.

Nowadays, I just do it for a laugh. There's just something about trying to win and being right that empowers me.

I put quite a bit of time reading stats and working on my own spreadsheets and being able to put a tick on the bit of paper next to my selection is the biggest reward.

Like I said - if you had asked me a number of years ago, it would have been a completely different story and could have been a scary one at that.

Back then - if I lost, I would try and chase that win. I've learnt that it's often best to take it on the chin and fight another day. I learnt the hard way and am a better gambler because of it.

I've set a limit to how much I spend each week, it's the best way to guarantee there will be another day to fight back.

We're only talking a few pounds with me, anyway. It's not like I am some high roller from Las Vegas or anything.

With that being said - it is always best to keep to your limit and enjoy yourself.

Anything else and it's a slippery slope to ruin.

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