So you want to gamble and the thought of winning is exciting. But before you jump into it, here are things you should know:
1. Know the law in your area. Whether you’re planning to play in a land base casino, online casino or do sports betting, there is a minimum age requirement and it depends on where you are. Even some states in the United States have different age requirements but in general, it is 21 years old.
In most countries in Europe, it’s 18 but there are exceptions. If you are in Germany, Ireland and Belgium, you must be 21 years old to gamble. Greece is another exception where you must be at least 23 to gamble and in Portugal it’s 25. In most of South America, 18 is the gambling age but take note that in some countries, gambling is illegal.
2. Gambling always involves a certain degree of luck and with some games like slots, it is pure luck. Some games like Poker and Blackjack involves a grade of skill. Knowing when to bet and the ability to read the behavior of your opponents are compelling in poker and counting or tracking cards is momentous with blackjack. Still, luck plays a big role on the cards dealt. Besides, gambling by definition is willing to risk something you value in the hope of getting something of even greater value.
3. Casinos offer promotions and bonuses so don’t forget to sign up to their free rewards program. You get points on your plays, bets and times you spent in the casino. Those points can get you credits for fine dining restaurants, trips, shows and free hotel rooms.
Online casinos offer free plays, bonuses and prizes.
4. Set a budget. It is easy to get carried away when you’re having fun and getting a taste of winning. Setting a budget and be firm with it is necessary to achieve success. Make sure the budget you set is not a significant amount in your paycheck. Never borrow money to fill your desired budget. Remember, there are more important things to put your money on. Never bet the money you can’t afford to lose by clinging on luck..
5. Be prepared to walk away. Losing is not a good feeling. Grievance will fill you and a false sense of belligerence to gamble more and get your money back and more will kick in. This usually worsens the situation and you end up in a distressing state. Control your emotions and let logic and reason put you back on your feet.
Also, learn to walk away when you’re winning. Take the profit. The longer you stay, the more chances you give back the money to the casino.
6. Set an earning goal and make it a realistic one. Tracking results is an effective way to accomplish your goal. You haven’t won until you collected your profit.
You probably heard “the house always win” from gamblers or people in the industry and it is said for a reason. Like what I mentioned earlier, playing longer can turn a winning into losing. So take them while you still can.
7. Not all casinos are trust worthy. Whether you’re gambling on land base casinos or online, only go to reputable ones. Check the reviews and testimonials of other players. Due your due diligence and do research on the company. Also, don’t forget to check the terms and conditions specially if you’re gambling online. Some companies have maximum payout per month and complicated payment process.
8. Gambling is addicting. Gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol can, leading to addiction. Specifically, the effect that gambling has on your brain’s levels of dopamine — a chemical messenger that causes feelings of pleasure. Once you’ve experienced the rush of dopamine brought on by a gambling win, you’ll do almost anything to experience that same amount of pleasure again.
Once the addiction kicks in, it will be impossible to stop betting and playing. Losing a game can take a person in an emotional whirlwind and in a very frustrated state. It will result to manic and irresponsible decisions. A lot of lives have been destroyed by gambling addictions. Responsible gambling takes a lot of discipline. So if you have addictive personality, I would suggest that you should stay out of gambling.
Now that you read this, you’re ready to play.