Every year, just after I count up my bills from Mother’s Day, my thoughts turn inexorably towards the WSOP. Even though this year I have already bubbled, or near bubbled, three satellites for the main event, my real focus starts now. As I think about the upcoming battles and all the surrounding spectacle, I’d like to take a moment to offer some thoughts and advice to those participating.

To start with, for the veterans and newbies alike, I wish my heartiest glglgl. May this be the year of the P5’er and all the bracelets fall into our hands and end up on our wrists. Good skill may get us far, but nobody wins one of these without some luck along the way, so may it be yours and mine.

The veterans may know what to expect, but that still doesn’t quell the butterflies in the nervous stomachs. I find it’s best to focus on the basics. Remember to sleep and eat as well as you can both before and during the tournaments. Keep your self well hydrated and bear in mind that both caffeine and alcohol will ultimately take water out of your system so be sure to include some plain water in there somewhere. If chicken wings give you gas then maybe you should avoid them until afterwards. I know one pro who likes to joke that there is a tell in how smelly a player’s farts are.

While I am on the subject of the basics, allow me to state the seemingly obvious. Don’t forget to breathe. This small piece of wisdom has been passed down from masters of martial arts and other sports, teachers from all areas of academia, and generally from the old to the young for time immemorial. When you are in a tight spot and you are unsure what to do or how to act, don’t forget to breathe. If you cannot decide what to focus your attention on at that time either, just focus on your breathing.

As for the big day, there are two things to remember. The first thing is often lost in the hoopla and only thought of when it is all over and too late. Be fully in the moment and cherish it. When my first child was born I thought I was ready. I had attended all the classes, read all the books, and I knew what to expect. I was Mr. Organized and ran everything like clockwork. We were on time, on schedule and I made sure I was on top of everything. The problem is that I don’t remember a thing about the entire experience. I was so focused on doing what needed to be done that I never allowed myself to take a moment and just enjoy being there. I know there are many 10k buy-in tournaments out there these days, but the main event of the WSOP doesn’t come around every day. Try to enjoy it while it is happening.

The second thing is to trust yourself and your game. Even with the huge fields these days there are still many more players who wish they were in the game then those who are playing it. Your game got you a seat in the big dance and, as much as anyone else there, you have a shot to win it all. Give yourself a break and don’t let worry, fear, or insecurity nibble away at your self confidence. Give it your best and let the chips fall where they may.

One last thing. Not to contradict myself, but there is still time for some last minute study as well. A month’s membership to a training site is a small investment for such a big game. Even if you only pick up one or two useful things, it may still be a worthwhile use of your time and money. Maybe a friend whose game you like could give you some feedback. Or you could take a few hours to read a book by an author you respect. Don’t go overboard and change up your entire game, but just nod your head knowingly and accept some last minute wisdom to add to your knowledge.

I will be there for the big one myself this year and I look forward to meeting as many P5'ers as I can both at the PocketFives.com party and throughout the event. Please feel free to PM me and let me know if you will be around. My love of good food is second only to my love of poker and Vegas has some great places for both. May we all be well, be happy, be calm and be lucky.