Yo, cash-out crew!

Timing your exit in poker is like knowing when to leave a party—too early, you miss the fun; too late, you’re regretting it. Since we’re talking bankroll strategy, let’s break down how to nail that perfect cash-out moment with some logic and a sprinkle of discipline.
First off, set a goal before you even sit at the table. Are you grinding for a specific profit, like doubling your buy-in? Or maybe you’re just trying to play a set number of hands to test a strategy? For me, I like to aim for a 2-3x buy-in profit as a signal to start eyeing the door.

But here’s the kicker: don’t let greed creep in. If you hit your target, don’t just keep playing because “the table feels hot.” That’s a trap. Stick to your plan.
On the flip side, know your stop-loss. If you’re down 50% of your buy-in and the table’s running you over, it’s probably not your night. Cut your losses and walk.

I use a mental rule: if I lose two buy-ins in a session, I’m out, no questions asked. Protects the bankroll and keeps tilt at bay.
Now, let’s talk table dynamics. If you’re at a juicy table with fish throwing chips like confetti, stay longer—but only if you’re still sharp. Fatigue is the silent killer in poker. I’ve made the mistake of staying too long, thinking I could keep crushing, only to give back half my stack because my brain was fried.

Set a time limit, like 3-4 hours, and reassess. If you’re still in the zone, great. If not, cash out and pat yourself on the back for the discipline.
One pro tip: track your sessions. I keep a simple spreadsheet—buy-in, cash-out, hours played, and a quick note on the table vibe. It helps me spot patterns, like if I’m consistently cashing out too early and leaving money on the table. Data doesn’t lie.
Lastly, don’t let emotions hijack your exit. Won a huge pot? Don’t get cocky and overstay. Took a bad beat? Don’t chase losses. Poker’s a long game, and your bankroll’s your lifeline. Treat every cash-out like a business decision, not a vibe check.
What’s your go-to exit strategy? Got any horror stories from staying too long? Spill the beans!
