I've been playing poker recreationally for about 15 years, but it's always been my dream to go pro. My ex-wife (while we were married) never thought it was a great idea, though. She was a bit of a puritan and I could never really get her on board with the idea that poker is a game of skill. That said, I've been on my own for a couple years now and I've finally decided to take the plunge. I'm a freelance writer by trade, and while I'm working my way up I plan to keep my writing gigs in order to have a consistent income and not put so much make-or-break pressure on my poker game.

I realize I'm on the older side of the curve when it comes to going pro, but I think that part actually makes me more determined to be successful. I like the idea of being an outlier. I want to prove you don't have to be 21 and full of piss and vinegar in order to be a winning professional.

Any other older pros around care to weigh in on their experience? I'm curious to see if I'm the only one pushing 40 in this community.