I spent 20+ years in the casino [ouch]. One person I met was a professional poker player. He only bet when he felt comfortable with the odds. His motto "Never leave with no money in your pocket" He never went home broke. If he was having a bad day he would just stop, take a small loss and relax for the rest of the day.
If you nearly have your house paid off that is the best bet you can make, nothing like not being on the treadmill.
