Here is a comparison check list of traits and tendencies for gamblers and calculated risk takers. Gambler
- Looks for excitement and danger.
- Jumps in with the crowd momentum, not wanting to be left out or left behind.
- Blames others or luck for bad outcome.
- Lingers over losing choices and wins not taken.
- Is influenced by unacknowledged fantasies of what is possible.
- Will risk more than can afford to lose.
- Acts on impulsive decisions.
- Is unaware of unconscious motivations.
- Acts out of sense of superiority or magical thinking.
- Gets high and feels powerful on a win. Gets low and feels worthless and small on a loss.
- Lacks discipline and invests on wishful fantasy rather than recognizes reality.
- Hides losses and is secretive about taking chances.
- Procrastinates (building up excitement levels).
- Follows a favorite method no longer useful or relevant.
- When losing will take increasingly bigger risks to catch up.
- Looks for the one big win that will result in bliss.
- Contains and manages emotions.
- Is aware of irrational factors swaying a crowd.
- Takes responsibility for results.
- Does not waste time with what might have been.
- Acknowledges personal fantasies and resolves them or disregards them.
- Risks a tiny fraction of equity on any individual choice (equity meaning time, money, relationship, self esteem, skill etc.).
- Concentrates on a realistic long-term strategy.
- Knows personal abilities and limitations.
- Is hardworking and open to new ideas.
- Stays emotionally even during wins and losses.
- Easily resists risks that do not fit within defined risk limitations.
- Is open about risk taking.
- Proceeds in a serious intellectual manner.
- Stays alert to present trends.
- Follows predetermined guidelines of safety.
- Analyzes situation, observes own reactions and makes realistic plans