There is something undeniably charming and alluring about any game of poker. Players and their mysterious air of casual self-assuredness, with their guy-next-door apparel and demeanour, fascinate and seduce as they make us wonder: is the door to wealth and fame in the world of poker really open to everyone?

Most poker players make it look easy. They seem to glide from hand to hand with Lady Luck strapped on their lap, hoarding large piles of chips and not flinching a muscle in the process. But is it really that easy? Can anyone rise to the top and how plausible is it to make a decent living out of playing poker?

These questions come to the minds of most aspiring poker enthusiasts. As one falls in love with the thrill of freshly dealt cards, the stories of high-rollers making 6 figures a year from poker alone fuel the dream that maybe, just maybe, a nice and comfortable life can be led around the poker table.

So what do the experts say?

As a general consensus, the answer is yes, with lots of 'but's immediately following.

“Yes poker is still very profitable in 2018 but you have to be willing to work hard to get it. It is not as easy to make big money in poker anymore. You have to study a lot more and have a professional approach to the game.” (Nathan "BlackRain79" Williams, https://www.blackrain79.com/2017/10/is-poker-still-profitable.html)

“How often you win, how much you play, and what games you choose all affect your profit in poker.” (https://www.pokernews.com/strategy/can-i-make-money-playing-poker-25958.htm)

It appears that the most important factor in one’s success at making a lifestyle out of poker playing is having a strategic approach. Being focused, committed and meticulous are some of the secrets of players that make it big.

Here are some strategic steps any poker enthusiast should keep in mind in order to maintain a good relationship with poker-playing and enjoy a successful climb to the top:

 - Know your place in the food-chain. Most poker experts agree that poker is not a game of chance, but of skill, therefore knowing just where you stand in terms of expertise will help you better assess the range of opponents you have a chance at beating.

 - Study intensely and relentlessly. For each hour of playing one must add an hour of studying - reading books, blogs and forums, but also ‘railbirding’ and talking to other players about their successful strategies. For instance, experts at Upswingpoker.com suggest that big winners develop an ‘edge’ – a sharp and clear understanding of their opponents’ playing style, which they use to defeat them irrespective of the hands they are being dealt; the corollary is developing an elusive, unpredictable style for oneself, to prevent skillful opponents from “reading” them.

“And they’ll use this understanding to outsmart, outwit and manipulate their opponents, which gives them a winning edge.” (https://upswingpoker.com/revealed-the-proven-ways-to-make-regular-profits-playing-poker)

 - Keep accurate track of losses and wins. Know how you fare at all times and seek help if losses become worrisome, yet you feel you can’t control your impulse to keep playing.

 - Play consistently, while observing your best performance indices. Do you play better at night, or in the morning? Do you prefer to get lost in the game, or to take breaks often? Do you enjoy the pressure, or perform better when the atmosphere is relaxed? Being aware of your style and your optimal poker environment will help you find the right times and places to play successfully.

 - Be wary of playing when tired, preoccupied, worried or otherwise distracted by negative emotions. Same goes for playing under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication that alters sobriety.

 - Play money that you can afford to lose.

Playing poker can be a lucrative career, but while poker superstars may display a nonchalant confidence during tournaments, make no mistake. Behind closed doors, all great winners work and study long hours, possess excellent self-awareness and practice endlessly at keeping a healthy, balanced mindset.