Laying bets to retain sanity

I've never been keen on laying bets on the basis that I only put bets on that I can afford, that the pleasure comes in watching how my selection performs, and that laying guarantees at least one losing bet. This afternoon has proved that there are situations when laying might be essential for mental well-being. I backed Stephen Lee at 40-1 for the Welsh Open when his half of the draw opened up and I remembered seeing him in some form recently - the Malta Open I think, and with half the odds a place I've watched his semi-final this afternoon with some interest. At 5-3 up in a first to 6 I could have backed Hamilton at 6-1 and guaranteed a nice return and no anxiety, but instead suffered huge mental torment as, somewhat inevitably Hamilton fought back to force a final frame, which I am now watching with my nerves in tatters. But then, I suppose that's what betting, and particularly thoughtful betting, is all about, that I've experienced huge emotional highs and lows over 5 hours of what has for an impartial observer, been a rather scrappy and error-strewn match. Writing this blog entry has helped to calm my nerves, and as I finish it, Lee has just won. A cigarette and a sit down in a darkened room are in order.