The big match is far more exciting when there is money riding on the results. But just because it’s a big match, and just because you have a favourite team, it doesn’t mean that betting should be done haphazardly. Sure, putting down a bit of money is all in good fun, but isn’t it far more fun when you actually win?
With that being said, there are a few mistakes that the average punter needs to avoid. Putting down random bets is entertaining, but it can still be done with a little elegance. After all, your favourite team isn’t going to be paying you back when they produce a failed bet.
Don’t Bet With Your Heart
You love your team, you’ve been with them through thick and thin, and you really want them to win. That’s fine, but betting and supporting are completely different things. You are allowed to support a team even as you bet against them to win. To put it another way; betting with your heart isn’t that smart. It’s actually the fastest way to end up with a depleted bankroll.
A smart punter knows that being a fan and being a bettor can be separate, and absolutely should be.
Don’t Take Longshot Bets
The idea of putting down a small bet and walking away wealthy is appealing. Heck, you’ve probably even heard stories about longshot bets that have made a punter wealthy overnight. But here’s the thing; you hear about successful longshot wins because they’re so rare. Betting smart doesn’t mean facing unbelievable odds and getting lucky. Smart betting means spotting the great odds when they appear, and jumping on the opportunity.
Don’t Lose Track Of Funds
If you’re committing to real money bets you’re also committing to keeping track of the funds. All money is important, and all bets are significant. No matter how small the stakes, money is money, and managing it is essential. Hastily throwing around cash is always the wrong approach, no matter the circumstances. After all, how will you even know how well you’re doing if you don’t know what you started off with?
Don’t Let It Ruin Sports
If you’ve noticed that you’re not enjoying sports anymore because of betting, maybe it’s time to give it a break. Gambling is fun, remember? If the outcome of a game is ruining your day, because you lost a bit of cash, it’s a sign that you’re taking it all too seriously. Keep it fun, keep it light, and don’t forget to remind yourself that it’s supposed to be entertaining, not a second job.
Don’t Ignore The Research
Lastly; ignoring deeper research is perhaps the biggest mistake of all. The difference between a team winning and losing can be something small, like an injury, or something big, like a replaced player. But you won’t know any of the above if you’re not doing the research. Read, analyse, and think before committing to a bet. That’s how smart punters win while others lose.