This was something I was shown a long time ago, and I'm going to share this with you now. This is just my thoughts, so feel free to share your opinions.

Four stages of competence - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - Go read this article first, don't worry, it's short. All I'm going to do is explain how it relates to the poker world and perhaps give some people insight on where they are and things to come.

1.Unconscious Incompetence.
We've all been at this level, many of us may still be. At this point, the poker world is still new, many players don't understand how much they have to learn. This leads to a false sense of confidence and how people get drawn into the poker world. Many win some money believe they must naturally be a good player, which is unlikely, and their first downswing is devastating.

Those stuck at this stage often become delusional, and try to convince others of their own greatness. We know them as the table braggart, and we'd rather they just give us their money quietly and leave

2. Conscious Incompetence.
At this point, a player begins to see how much he has to learn. There is a wealth of knowledge out there, and it can be intimidating to have it all thrown at you at once. All you can do is take it a bit at a time, and study as much (or even more) than you play.

Trying to rush things and know everything at once can send you back to the first stage if you don't have true understanding, and this is where poker can be frustrating. Be patient and realize it takes a long time to piece everything together to become a great player.

People stuck at this level just don't put the effort into learning or getting the help they need. They say things like "I'm just not good at math", "I do SOME studying, once and a while", or "I don't want to sound stupid". These players may win at the low levels, but often are quiet ones that slowly give us their money.

3. Conscious Competence
At this point a player is starting to understand most situations. This is where you will be training yourself to make the right decision, and I've heard it takes 10,000 repetitions to train an instinct. Keep focused on making the right decision, time and time again. Don't forget to keep studying so you know you're making the right choices and not creating leaks.

There is a trap at this stage too. Either people play while unfocused/distracted, or attempt to play too many tables. The problem lies in "conscious competence", this player is good so long as they pay attention and consider a situation thoroughly. This is where you see good players get stuck at certain playing limits for a long time. They focus and make money, and as soon as they do, they become complacent and lose it again.

4.Unconscious Competence.
This is where we strive to get to, where our decisions are instinctual and easy for us, even if the beats are still not. After some time at this level, you can begin to train others effectively.

It's important to remember that you may not be at the same stage all the time, depending on the situation. Pros on TV are often cool, collected, and make difficult decisions with no reactions whatsoever, but once and a while you see them sweat and second-guess their own decision making process. Remember, the learning process never stops, and always play to the best of your ability.

Great post, sadly I would say I am at the conscious incompetence level. Definitely cool to think about the different levels. I just don't have the self discipline to focus and take it to the next level.