Sports gamblers, even those that follow proper money management techniques most of the time, can still see their profits evaporate with a few bad habits. One such habit reminds me of a friend of mine from Southern California. He came to the realization that betting his favorite teams (Dodgers, Angels, Lakers, Packers, Ducks and Kings) was helping him lose his bankroll in a hurry.

He did his handicapping and had a 'side' or 'total' that he could back up with fact after fact, trend after trend. However his work-to-reward ratio was way out of whack.

After losing a tough OVER game involving the Dodgers, I advised him to stay away from the "local teams" and focus on some other teams for awhile. Sure enough by putting in the same amount of work and using the same handicapping techniques, he has started to see a positive change in his results.

Now I've got my friend concentrating on games that fly under the radar instead of the nationally televised events that the public jumps all over (sharps too).

While most bettors consider action on big games a key reason why they bet in the first place, he has a different approach. It's all about the money. He leaves the fun and excitement for others.

It's like when I was on the bookmaking side of things. I was constantly improving. My advice to you is simple: When you believe you've learned everything there is to know about handicapping, it's time to get out. There is no end to the learning curve. The lessons go on day after day. Accept that and you'll be a much better 'capper for it.