How Strong Is Your Foundation?

Last week I attended a workshop in London talking about foundations in breakdancing. I've been dancing for over 7 years now, and in the community the word "foundations" has always been continuously talked about.

The traditional view about foundation applies in all forms, including poker. It is defined as the backbone that helps support the structure.

–noun
the basis or groundwork of anything: the moral foundation of both society and religion.

In breakin', we define foundation as being the basic structure of the dance broken down. The standing steps, the six step (floor work), and freezes. In SNG poker, it's ICM knowledge, adaptability, strategy (there are probably more).

The famous dancer had a different view about foundation, and that was it was all about confidence. Confidence in what you do, why you do it, and the ability to not be shaken. Yes, all the previous ideas of foundation still apply, so it isn't to say that we should ignore those things, but we should emphasize these ideas more.

There is to say that my foundations have been shaky breakin' and poker wise. But lets talk about poker for now, since this is a poker blog.

So the link between the most profitable (who are not necessarily the best) SNG players is that they have strong foundations. What do I mean by this? By the new [and improved] definition;

• Confidence - Number 1 on the list because its the most important. This includes the willingness to look stupid, make mistakes, but have the belief in oneself that they are able to understand that this is all a learning process. Ego is out the window, and really understanding the game even when they're amazing winning players allows these guys to stay at the top.
• Consistancy - With confidence comes consistancy. So in SNGs its learning all the strategy, shoving and calling ranges and adapting to players.
• Control - They're emotionally strong enough to handle to continuous barrage of bad beats and still apply their strategy no matter what. They have great bankroll management, and game select. They have a plan that lead towards set goals.

Having a good foundation is a great for the long run. That's not to say that these things don't apply in other areas of life, including one's personality. Don't treat life by being so results orientated, instead try to enjoy the ride and you'll be much happier when the end results aren't as important to you anymore.