How to set and follow game goals
Clearly stated goals turn gambling into a controlled process. Below is a practical algorithm from installation to execution control, without excess water.
1. Target type determination
1. Financial objectives
Loss limit: maximum amount of loss per session (for example, 1,000 ₴).
Winning goal: desired profit before stopping (for example, + 200 ₴).
2. Temporary goals
Session duration: hard 30-45 min.
Session intervals: minimum 24 hours break.
3. Process goals
Number of bets: no more than 20 per session.
Average rate: fixed rate 50 ₴.
2. SMART approach to goals
S (Specific) - specifics
"Not losing more than 10% of the budget," not "playing better."
M (Measurable)
Count the number of bets and amounts - fix the numbers.
A (Achievable)
The goal must correspond to the average level of the game and bankroll.
R (Relevant) - significance
Focus on maintaining control, not "quick wins."
T (Time-bound)
Set the exact start and end times for the session.
3. Formulation of objectives before the session
1. Written record
Before the game, record:
- ```
- Date: 2025-08-10
- Bankroll: 1,500 ₴
- Loss target: 300 ₴
- Winning goal: 200 ₴
- Time: 19: 00-19: 30
- Maximum bets: 15
- ```
- 2. Confirmation of intent
Read aloud or dictate to your responsibility partner.
4. Control automation
1. Technical barriers
Setting up a "stop limit" in the Internet bank: automatically blocks replenishment when 300 ₴ losses are reached.
StayFocusd extension: disables access 30 minutes after start.
2. Real-time logging
CoinKeeper application: fix each bet and balance immediately after the round.
Push notifications about exceeding 50% of the target loss and about achieving the goal of winning.
5. Monitoring and adjustment during the session
1. Check after every 5th bid
Stop, check the records: are the goals exceeded.
2. Three deep breaths method
If you want to "click another round," pause and breathe - often the desire passes.
3. Reality check every 15 min
Auto-notification asking "Are you following your goals?" - if the answer is no, automatically end the session.
6. End of session and analysis
1. Fixing totals
Make a note of the actual result:
- ```
- Actual losses: 280 ₴
- Actual winnings: 0 ₴
- Bets placed: 14
- Game time: 28 mins
- ```
- 2. Comparison with plan
If the goals are met or the stop to reach the limit has worked, the discipline will win.
In case of violation, mark the cause (emotions, distraction, technical failure).
7. Regular reporting and revision of objectives
1. Weekly Summary
Collect all records in a week:
| Date | Losses | Gains | Goals Met (Yes/No) | Reason for Deviations | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highlight the trends: which targets are too hard or too soft. | |||||
| 2. Tailoring limits |
If you regularly miss the winning goal, reduce it by 20%.
If you often exceed losses, reduce the loss limit for the next cycle.
8. Social reporting
1. Responsibility Partner
Send him the final table once a week.
2. Group chat
It is easier to exchange short reports every day in the Gamblers Anonymous Telegram chat - collective control increases motivation.
Result
Successful adherence to goals is the result of a combination of SMART formulations, automated barriers, real accounting and regular analysis. Written plans, technical constraints and social reporting make discipline a sustainable habit, and excitement a safe and controlled entertainment.
