How and when is a poker player determined to be a professional?

[Mike_25]

A player becomes a pro when the game ain't just a hobby anymore, see? When them winnings start stacking up fast enough that you can actually live off 'em, pay the bills, that's when you've made it as a pro.

Pros play poker 8-12 hours a day, every day. They study the game like it's their religion. They track stats, analyze hands, learn new strategies. Winning becomes an obsession.

Pros don't have any other source of income. Poker's their job now. Wake up, go to the card room, come home long after midnight. Repeat seven days a week.

Being a pro ain't just about the money though. Top pros have a gift, an intuitive sense of the game that can't be taught. They read people bluffing and folding instantly. They know exactly when to take risks and when to fold.

Pro status ain't handed out easy. You got to put in the hours, deal with the swings, learn from some of the best. And even then, only a tiny fraction of amateur players ever become professional card sharks. Playing poker just ain't enough - to make it as a pro, you got to breathe, dream and live the game.

That's when you've reached the high stakes, my friend. When you can't imagine doing anything else. That's what it takes to become a professional.

 

[GamblingBoy]

Though by following the above guidelines, one would be able to determine how professional he is in poker game.
However, care must be taken to ensure one do not fall into gambling addiction. One must be able to bet wisely.

 

[Dallax]

A professional poker player is typically someone who makes a significant portion of their income from playing poker. This means that they are consistently winning money, even after taking into account the costs of playing, such as buy-ins and travel expenses.

 

[Ejyndayo53]

I consider efforts taken to become professional very disastrous. Though it may paid off some but majority become acute losers in this process. To become a professional poker is not easy task. Lots of time and money are involved and are very risky. Only those that are determined and focussed made it to the point of becoming pro.