Giving or getting weight...which makes you play better?

[inside_english]

For me it's giving...I am far more confident because I feel I am that much better than the other person.

I once played even 1P with someone for fun and he won a few games.
I recently played the same person and gave 11-7 and beat him...for some light cash. (very light)

I guess when I give up weight it also forces me to bear down. Unless I am being hustled, I tell myself I have to win just to prove to myself and to the naysayers (know-it-all railbirds) the weight I offered, or agreed upon, was not out of line.

On the other hand, when I receive weight I feel like less of a player, inadequate etc.
I am not a hustler, so I don't approach the table super-confident because I know I have a lock on the match as I managed to convince/swindle my opp into thinking the weight we agreed to was fair.

Guess that's why I don't gamble much.

Anyway, eager to hear thoughts on this.

 

[MJR77]

I am in the same boat as you because if I get weight I do not try as hard because I am up however many games. When I give it I have to try harder to make up the difference.

 

[Cameron Smith]

I'll never accept weight, I feel that it taints any victory.

As for giving a handicap, I find that I tend to play a little bit better as it adds a certain amount of urgency to the situation. I can't play half assed and win. Furthermore there is no pride on the line, so that can sometimes lend feeling of comfortability.

 

[Johnnyt]

When I was at the top of my game gambling every night and had a few drinks in me a 2nd tier pro could give me the 7 and out and the break and he wouldn't be stealing w/o a gun. As far as me giving weight...not so much. Just call me ElNito. Johnnyt