"A man sees. A man hears. A man knows."

Jaqen H'ghar, the mysterious character in the second season of Game of Thrones, utters these words repeatedly to Arya Stark when she marvels at his ability to be aware of so much around him. While the HBO series has yet to explain the powers behind this faceless assassin, what is clear is his valuation of the powers of observation. These same powers of observation can benefit you at the poker table as well as in all areas of your life.

1. Listen More, Talk Less - You are already aware of your perspective. True learning is gained from understanding perspectives different than your own. Prioritize understanding their problems and opportunities.

2. Seeing is Not Observing - It is not enough to take in the stimulus around you. Observation is a rigorous process of comparing what you see with what you already know or what you think might be true.

3. Decision Making Improves - When you are more aware of who you are dealing with, you are in a better position to understand their motivations and how to influence or help them. When you focus your attention, your must choose which elements to prioritize and which elements are less important.

4. Better Communication - Every person and situation is different. Using your observational skills will allow you to determine what is a more optimal language to achieve your goals.

5. Enhanced Awareness - Using all your senses to take in the information available around you makes you more present. It helps you live life in the moment, leading to a life more in touch and fully experienced.

To take full advantage of the powers of observation, it is not enough to passively collect information using your five senses. One must observe repeatedly. Using a pattern of comparing your finding, testing hypotheses and analyzing your conclusions before taking a firm course of action. When you can turn that level of attention to any subject, you are bound to find positive results from your elevated level of knowledge.