Even though I'm not really eligible to win the Rex55 Blog contest, I thought I would contribute my entry on the last day of the contest.  If you haven't given it your shot, you really should because every poker player should ask that question of themself and you can win a free hour of coaching and tourney stake.

What holds you back from being a better poker player than you are today? What are your shortcomings and weaknesses?

Time - I'm 42, married, father of two, home owner and business owner.  Balancing all those priorities with my poker interest has never left me the time to really work on my game.  The time I do have, I would usually prefer to play rather than study.

Multi-tasking limitations - The greatest number of tables I've ever been able to play effectively is two.  While I can physically play more tables, I find I don't play them optimally.  So that limits the numbers of hands I play.  I allow my play to be regularly interupted by work or family, so my focus isn't always what it should be.

Fear - I'm a conservative player.  I like to play hands with strong values so I play tighter than most of my opponents and don't bluff enough. Unless I have history with a player, I tend to give them credit when they are representing a strong hand.  I practice strict bankroll management, so I don't feel comfortable taking shots or moving up under rolled.

Software laziness - I've never used poker software to analyze my game.  I don't use Poker Tracker or Hold'em Manager.  There are many programs available that can assist you to evaluate your opponents or refine and evaluate your game.

Lack of aspiration - Frankly, I haven't aspired to be a great player or one who plays for high stakes.  I'm somewhat content playing profitably at whatever level I play that I'm rolled for.

Lack of creativity - Because I play the lower limits where players don't respect advanced moves as much, I typically play a straight forward game and don't deviate too much from my tight aggressive style.

Mentor - While I've worked with many great poker players, I've never asked for help/coaching/advice.  I tend to respect their space and life, not wanting to burden them with helping me because they get requests from so many others.

Money - It takes money to make money.  While I haven't redeposited since my first $100 deposit in June 2006, these days my bankroll is regularly drained by Poker Curious expenses so that limits what I can play.

I'm sure I could come up with more shortcomings and weaknesses, but that's enough for now.