I’ve had the same conversation many times: a friend gets into sports betting—usually during the World Cup, the Super Bowl, Cheltenham, or a big derby weekend—and they ask me for tips.
Not because I’m a pro, but because I’ve bet for years and learned (sometimes the hard way) what makes it fun—and what doesn’t.
This article shares what I now tell anyone placing their first bet, not as advice from an expert, but as someone who’s been through the learning curve.
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“I don’t tell them how to win—I tell them how not to lose their head.”
Why Do So Many People Start During Big Events?
Hi, I’m Josh—32, casual bettor, rugby fan, and someone who used to treat Cheltenham like a bank holiday.
Most of my friends only start betting when there’s a big event. It’s social, there’s hype, and the games are already on the TV.
But here’s the problem:
- Big weekends = big emotions
- Big emotions = rushed bets
- Rushed bets = bad decisions
I always tell them: Start small, even when the occasion feels big.
What’s the First Thing I Say?
The very first thing I say is simple:
“Don’t try to beat the bookie. Try to enjoy the match.”
Then I follow it up with these basics:
- Only bet what you’d be okay losing
- Stick to sports or teams you know
- Avoid betting live if you’re new
- Never chase losses—ever
And if the odds look too good to be true? They probably are. Here’s why.
Do They Ask What I Bet On?
Yes. All the time.
I tell them:
- I rarely bet accumulators (too risky)
- I use decimal odds mostly, but I explain both formats
- I look at the betting lines, not just who I think will win
- I don’t bet on sports I don’t follow
I also remind them not to take tips from mates too seriously. Most of us are guessing more than we admit. Reading a betting line properly helps.
How Do I Suggest They Handle Wins and Losses?
The same way you’d handle a pub quiz—celebrate or shrug it off, but don’t let it follow you home.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Wins can be more dangerous than losses—they make you feel invincible
- Losses only sting if you expected to win big
- Either way, step away after a match or two
I send them this guide to managing emotions, especially during their first few weekends.
Do I Recommend Setting Limits from Day One?
Absolutely. I’ve made the mistake of not doing that.
Here’s what I now show them:
| Limit Type | What It Helps With |
| Deposit Limit | Keeps spending predictable |
| Time Alert | Avoids getting stuck in apps |
| Session Timeout | Creates space to reflect |
Most sportsbooks let you set these in minutes. I wish I’d known that earlier. Here’s how.
What If They’re Betting With Friends?
I tell them it can be great—or it can go off the rails fast.
So I say:
- Don’t match someone else’s stake just to join in
- Don’t pretend you know more than you do
- Don’t bet against someone just for the drama
And if the game’s not fun without a bet on it? Maybe don’t bet on that game.
Final Thought: Betting Isn’t a Skill You Need to Master
When my friends ask, “Should I learn more before I bet again?”
I tell them: Learn enough to stay in control, not enough to try and beat the system.
If you’re starting out, here’s what I’d leave you with:
- Keep stakes small
- Use your head, not your phone’s push notifications
- Take a break between matches
- Don’t let betting become the main event
Let the sport stay the star. Betting should add colour—not take over the whole picture.
