Sky Matsuhashi joins Jim Reed and John Somsky on the Rec Poker Podcast to discuss the importance of setting SMART goals for poker players in 2025. SMART, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound, serves as a framework to help players create actionable plans for improvement. The conversation touches on various strategies for handling three-bets in cash games, highlighting the need for players to analyze their opponents and adjust their ranges accordingly. Sky shares insights into his own goals for the upcoming year, including creating new courses and growing his YouTube channel. Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in defining their own poker objectives, emphasizing accountability and continuous learning as key to achieving success in the game.

Takeaways:

• Setting SMART goals for poker can enhance focus and measurable progress in skill development.
• Breaking down yearly goals into manageable weekly objectives increases the likelihood of achieving them.
• Identifying opponent's tendencies and adjusting your strategy is crucial when facing three bets.
• Understanding flop texture and ranges can significantly improve decision-making in cash games.
• Effective bankroll management is essential to transitioning to higher stakes while minimizing risk.
• Utilizing tools like databases and tracking software can reveal valuable insights into your play.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thepokerforge.com
• smartpokerstudy.com
• habitica.com

Keywords:

poker goals, SMART goals, poker strategy, cash game tips, tournament strategies, three betting, stack sizes, poker coaching, poker training, online poker, bankroll management, set mining, poker ranges, ICM pressure, poker leaks, live poker events, poker study methods, poker podcast, poker education, recreational poker