Seeking Balance Purpose Before Performance: Espen Jorstad on Community Purpose and Health
Aug 4, 2025
Espen Jørstad, a professional poker player and WSOP Main Event champion, opens up about navigating burnout and life after monumental success. He shares how constant travel impacted his health and routines, emphasizing the importance of community in recovery and motivation. Espen reflects on the hollowness of solo celebrations post-win and explores future paths in coaching and content creation. He also discusses the challenges of social media, loneliness, and his analytical approach to high-stakes tournaments, highlighting a shift toward holistic well-being.
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Two Years Living Out Of A Suitcase
- Espen lived out of a suitcase for two and a half years while traveling to poker stops and staying in Airbnbs and hotels.
- He regrets it and says the constant moving and lack of a base harmed his health and well-being.
Jet Lag Harms Measurable Health
- Constant flying and shifting time zones severely damaged Espen's HRV and health metrics measured on WHOOP.
- He plans to travel far less to protect his physical health moving forward.
Purpose Shifted From Performance To Health
- Espen shifted from tactical routines (meditation, journaling, pregame routines) to a holistic approach driven by general happiness and health.
- He now prioritizes being healthy and happy over doing habits solely for poker performance.