Your Best Bet - Staying on Track

Staying On Track

Like any social activity or form of entertainment, the decision to gamble involves responsibility and planning, especially regarding how much time and money is spent.

To increase the likelihood that gambling will remain a fun, enjoyable and recreational activity, please consider these points before, during and after your participation in any form of gambling:

1. Before you begin to gamble…

Set a time limit and consider how much time you have to spend gambling, without compromising any of your commitments.
Figure out your loss limit and how much money can you afford to spend on gambling after all of your other financial commitments and plans have been taken care of.
Think about a win limit. If you have wins, what are you going to do with them? Some people take the 'left pocket-right pocket' approach to gambling, which means money in their left pocket is used for gambling while any winnings are cashed out and kept in their right pocket. This ensures that you will not lose all of your winnings if you continue to play.
Ask yourself: why am I gambling? Is it really for the fun and entertainment, or is it to try and win money? Be honest with yourself. If you are trying to win money, chances are that you will be disappointed. Gambling should only be considered a form of entertainment, which, like any other, comes with a cost.
Take time to understand the game(s) you will be playing and most importantly the cost associated with playing them.
To maintain a social element, consider playing with a friend as opposed to gambling on your own.
Tell others what you're doing. Being secretive and hiding your gambling is risky behaviour that can lead to problems.

2. While you are gambling…

Take breaks regularly. Go grab something to eat or simply go for a walk.
Separate some or all of your winnings from money you've committed to spend.
Keep your emotions in check and know that losing is part of gambling. If this causes frustration or anger, then you need to re-examine your expectations.
Resist the urge to chase lost money. Continuing to gamble in order to try and win back the money you lost will only create further losses.
Leave your credit and debit cards at home to avoid the temptation of withdrawing more cash. This will keep you within your pre-determined spending limit.

3. After you finish gambling…

Review your time and spending limits. Did you stick to your own guidelines and play within your limits? If not, examine the reasons and consider what changes you will make next time.
Think about your motivations for gambling and the experience that you've had. How do they match up to why you decided to gamble in the first place? Do you need to adjust your expectations or learn more about the cost of playing and how the games work?
Does gambling cause you to feel sad, depressed, embarrassed or regretful? Remember: entertainment is supposed to be enjoyable.