The Golden Rules of Gambling

Here are some rules I had set for myself back when I was gambling actual money.

Actually, we should not call them rules. Things change. These are more fluid than Rules and I will be adjusting them as necessity dictates. I'm not sure what to call them, but they're not Rules.

1) Never bet against Your home team

- Notice this doesn't read "the" home team. On days where the Celtics/Patriots/Red Sox have been destined to lose, matched up against powerful superstars in their prime, looking like bums for weeks at a time, they always seem to pull one out when I bet against them. Which stings twice as bad. Don't do it.

2) Only bet on games you can watch

- You don't want to check your phone or the Sportscenter bottom line ticker to realize that you've lost hundreds of dollars. It's not fun, don't do it. Plus, it doesn't feel as Good if you win. Watch the game. With friends. Gambling is about having fun.

3) Collect your winnings before you bet again

- Don't let it ride. At least hold the money in your hand first. It will make you think longer and more rationally about the bet at hand before making it.

4) Pay your debts before you bet again

- Don't chase it. The gods react mercilessly and without restrain when people chase it. Real men honor their debts. It will make you think longer and more rationally about the bet at hand before making it.

5) The Over is more fun than the Under

- This is discussed in further detail in the Sept 2010 post "A Paradox of Negativity..."