I agree with you, OP. Following these guidelines is essential for becoming a smart gambler:
1. Have a side hustle that earns you money weekly or monthly.
2. Only risk what you can afford to lose.
3. Lower your expectations regarding gambling outcomes.
4. Remember that success in gambling is unlikely; the odds are 1% success to 99% failure.
If you truly want peace of mind, don’t rely on gambling as your sole source of income. Consider getting a job or starting a business. Enjoy gambling as a source of entertainment rather than as a way to make money.
Is smart gambler is a one that follows these guidelines. And to become a smart gambler it takes some years of experience of losses and wins. That is the where the fine-tuning starts. I like the second point of lower your expectation because each balances your reality instead of false hope. In terms of sports betting, cash out is an example.