Poker is a game that puts an individual’s analytical, mathematical and interpersonal skills to the test. It also pushes their mental and physical endurance to the limit. Interestingly, poker can indirectly teach life lessons that aren’t always obvious to those who don’t play the game.

For example, it teaches you how to read body language. A good poker player is able to observe subtle changes in an opponent’s mood or expression, and they can make adjustments accordingly. This kind of skill can also be useful in business or any other area where you need to be able to read the people around you.

Another lesson that poker teaches is how to assess risk and reward. This is a vital skill in both poker and life, as there will be times when a moderate amount of risk will yield a great reward. A common mistake that many people make when playing poker is to try to play it safe, which can often backfire and lead to them missing opportunities.

It also teaches patience, which is something that can be very useful in the workplace and other areas of life. Poker can be a very long game, and this can teach you how to stay patient under pressure. This is an essential skill for business, as it can help you to deal with difficult situations that arise in the workplace. It can also improve your interpersonal skills, as poker is a very social game.