What is Tilt?

This scene from the movie Molly’s Game perfectly illustrates a poker phenomenon called ‘tilt.’ That's when your emotions take the wheel and start driving your decision-making straight off a cliff.

Surprisingly most poker most poker players don't go broke because they have bad strategy. No, actually most players go broke because, when they're having a rough time, they go on tilt throwing caution (and their money)—to the wind. I've seen this play out more times than I can count, and I'll confess, I've been guilty of it myself.

When I was younger, I'd go on tilt, lose my cool—and my money—playing so recklessly that, in hindsight, I'd think, "What on earth was I doing?"

Tilt was an expensive education, but it seared one thing into my brain: if you don't learn to control your emotions, they'll end up controlling you.

So, welcome to tilt week, where each day I'll share a spark on something I’ve learned from tilt. Because tilt can actually teach you valuable lessons—if you’re willing to listen. After all, some of the best lessons in life come with a price tag.