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What Chess Teaches You About Life
Some people may think that there’s nothing more to it. After all, by the end of the day, chess is an ancient game that has lived on for generations. However, one can learn many life lessons from this classic game.
Some of these lessons include:
- “Always think ahead.”
Chess teaches you the art of strategic thinking. Learning how to spot patterns and anticipate moves from your opponent can help you achieve your desired goal.
- “Try to understand what your opponent is thinking.”
Part of strategic thinking involves thinking like your opponent. However, chess can also teach you how to relate to people from any age or background.
- “Sometimes sacrifices have to be made.”
Always a very difficult choice, and yet… winning a game may require a sacrifice. Whether it is time or material, learning the value of sacrifices is well worth the effort.
- “Don’t let your emotions guide your actions.”
When you are trapped in the corner, it is tempting to lash out, throw up your hands and say forget it! Don’t allow your instincts and/or emotions guide you. Reacting on impulse can lead to disaster—a consequence that most chess players know by heart.
- “Never get too comfortable.”
If you’ve been winning games, it’s easy to get comfortable. Your play will become repetitive, and recognizable. Don’t let your opponent catch you off balance, they may be looking for an opportunity to seize the win, or worse, cheat you out of a fairly- played game.
While it doesn’t bode well to be anxious, it always helps to stay focused and prepared.
- “Plans can change, and sometimes we need to get creative.”
It’s always useful to try to predict the next moves your opponent will make. Sometimes things turn out differently than you expected. When this happens, it helps to tap into your creativity for solutions that can help you escape the unpleasant situation. You may find this skill set to be applicable in other areas of your life.
There’s a reason why chess continues to be a more popular game across the world. However, beyond the game, it also has a lasting impact on how a person can view life. Once you’ve played the game a few times, you’ll be surprised to find there are new ways to play the game even years later.
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