Why I Think Bankroll Swings Are Normal

[FFinesser]

When I first started playing, every downswing felt like I was doing something wrong. Over time I’ve learned that bankroll swings are just part of poker, even if you’re making the right decisions.

For me, the key is to focus less on short-term results and more on whether I’m playing well. Accepting variance makes it easier to stay calm and keep improving.

 

[Reddog888]

Humans are adaptive, so whether you are on a losing streak or a long winning streak, you will find that everything is normal and will no longer feel like the beginning.

 

[puzzlefish]

Think of it like you are on a boat in waves, going upstream to a higher point. If you're doing it right, on average you will find yourself at a higher point.

 

[anasslaaleg]

In poker, variance is part of the game. Even if you play perfectly, you’re going to experience upswings and downswings—sometimes brutal ones. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad player; it just means you’re in a game where luck influences short-term results.
Swings are normal because:
You never control the cards, only your decisions.
Tournaments especially have high variance—hundreds of entries and only a few paid spots.
Even pros go through long breakeven stretches.
For me, bankroll swings are a reminder to stay disciplined, manage my roll carefully, and focus on long-term EV rather than short-term outcomes.