Beginner Post-session Reflections: Learning from Cold Deck Experiences Owen Gaines Owen Gaines is a professional poker player and author who has played an estimated ten million hands and written four poker strategy books. November 11, 2025 The goal isn’t to avoid bad luck; it’s to respond to it with focus and a plan for continuous growthEvery poker player has faced the frustration of a cold deck—a stretch where the cards seem determined to go against you. These sessions can feel like a test of patience and discipline, pushing even experienced players to question their strategy. Instead of viewing them as pure bad luck, reflecting after such sessions helps turn the experience into a learning opportunity rather than an emotional setback. Post-session reflection begins by separating variance from mistakes. Not every losing hand is played poorly, and not every win comes from skill. Reviewing key hands with a clear mind allows players to identify whether losses came from poor decision-making or simply from running into stronger holdings. This distinction is essential for long-term growth and helps maintain confidence during inevitable downswings.Writing notes after a cold deck session can be especially useful. Players who document the emotions, decisions, and patterns they notice often find it easier to identify tilt triggers.Recognizing emotional reactions, such as frustration, impatience or the urge to chase losses, builds the mental awareness needed to control them in future games. Over time, this self-awareness reduces the impact of variance on one’s mindset.Cold deck situations also reveal how well a player manages bankroll and session planning. Stopping losses early, sticking to table limits, and avoiding impulsive rebuys are signs of discipline that separate professionals from casual players. Reflecting on whether you followed these principles can highlight areas for improvement and reinforce positive habits.Finally, post-session analysis should always end with perspective. Even the best players in the world experience brutal runs of bad cards. By reviewing sessions objectively and adjusting strategy where necessary, players can emerge from cold deck experiences more resilient and better prepared.