Poker is a game of chance, but it also involves skill. Taking the time to learn the game and observe how others play will help you develop quick instincts. Observe how experienced players react to their situations and try to imagine how you would have reacted in the same situation to build your poker instincts.
Developing your poker intuitions is important, but you must also be willing to adapt and change your style. For example, if you are an aggressive player at a table but your opponents are quiet and slow it may be worth changing your play. Often the difference between break-even beginner players and big-time winners has to do with changing their views of the game and learning to approach it in a cold, detached, mathematical, and logical way rather than emotionally and superstitiously.
One of the most common mistakes is getting attached to good hands like pocket kings or queens. This can lead to disastrous results when an ace hits the board. Instead you should work out the range of cards that your opponent could have and bet accordingly. Top players fast-play their strong hands to build the pot and chase off other players waiting for a draw that can beat them.
Another important thing to remember is that you will win some and lose some. It’s part of the game, so don’t get too excited when you do win. But equally, you shouldn’t let a bad beat crush your confidence.