Forgetting you are always shooting pool against an opponent
The opponent at hand could be the player opposite the table from you shooting pool--or the very table itself!
What are the current playing conditions? (I’ve played on crummy tables in old shacks in the rain, water pouring down onto a corner of a table--but the local hustler knew his “meadow” and I needed to stay sharp to keep as much money as I could.)
The dopey player gets intimidated by the other fellow rather than taking each battle as a learning opportunity. Such opportunity often yields information to win the game. Perhaps my opponent fears attempting power break strokes or aiming bank shots as most players do. Give them those “opportunities” where you can--or start losing pool stylishly!
