When I launched my project one year ago, I wanted first to experiment something totally different in terms of chess improvement. I decided to stop any form of chess training and rely exclusively on new habits that would boost my physical and mental form. The idea was first to find out how these non-chess habits would affect the… Read More »
We, human beings, are prone to negative thinking. And while criticism might affect our self-esteem for weeks, months, or even years, compliments on the contrary tend to go in one ear and out the other. Good news is you can fight this human bias simply by appreciating more the goods things in life and expressing gratitude. Embracing a… Read More »
Draw offers can sometimes be tricky. I remember one game when a far weaker opponent offered me a draw in a balanced position. I declined because of the Elo difference and started to play more aggressively than usual. What I didn’t notice at this particular moment is that I unconsciously switched my positional intentions into more direct play.… Read More »
Did you know that positive and consistent self-talk can lead you to success? There is evidence[i] showing that the identity you choose for yourself will eventually translate into your behavior and actions. Talking about that, I recently introduced to you the notion of visualization. Positives affirmations represent another excellent way to condition yourself to act successfully. The concept… Read More »
Whatever its origins, stress is part of the chess game and clearly inevitable in our everyday lives. When it becomes chronic, anxiety can slow down your memory functions, weaken your game and make you underperform. Releasing the pressure is a real but necessary challenge to overcome in order to finally play at your optimal level. Don’t worry anymore!… Read More »
I remember one day listening to the radio and hearing a Yoga teacher saying that in 2 words, Yoga is the science of happiness. I don’t know how true this is, but as a form of meditation, Yoga constitutes another good way of training for improving both your energy and mental levels. And it seems Tai Chi is… Read More »
Many people suffer from headaches. And when it happens while playing, it can certainly ruin your game. Suggested by the Youtube channel Beyourpotential, you can relieve 90% of headaches using this 2-minute trick. Hydrate first It is important to highlight that headaches can be caused by dehydration. So don’t forget to drink sips of water regularly as suggested… Read More »
What is your chess dream? Which performance would you like to achieve one day? Which Elo would represent an accomplishment to you? As explained in a previous article, all these objectives and hopes you have in mind can refrain you from attaining tangible results. It is more fruitful to develop your own weekly process of chess improvement and… Read More »
I don’t know about you, but personally, I’ve already lost on time. Seeing the flagfall is quite frustrating, because you know you could (should?) certainly have avoided this situation. The tendency in tournaments is generally to reduce time controls and to apprehend these changes, it is better to get prepared. So, here are 7 helpful strategies to optimize… Read More »
“It is better to have a bad plan than no plan.” This quote from Garry Kasparov emphasizes the importance of strategic planning while playing, which is also true for your time. Time is precious and has to be managed adequately to get the most of it. And by planning it well, you will finally have some space to… Read More »