3 Signs that you'll be a Chess Master One Day
I'm often asked by our ChessPathways members if I think they "have what it takes" to become a Chess Master.
While it's certainly not an easy road, I believe that the possibility exists for all who dedicate themselves to it! Are you up for the challenge? Here are 3 signs you're destined for the Master title someday:
1. Your "Competitive Balance" is spot-on
This is a big factor in chess success, and often overlooked. Throughout my chess career, I feel like I've generally had the perfect amount of competitiveness, and it has served me well.
On one hand, you have to be a fighter to become a chess master. You should hate to lose, and love to win. If you're one of those people who says "oh well, it's 'just a game!' " whenever you're defeated (I could NEVER stand that phrase, not even hearing it as a 5-year-old!), I imagine it will be hard to become a Master!
But on the other hand, you can't let losses kill your enthusiasm. I think far more players have this flaw than the aforementioned apathy problem. One of my first chess students started crying after losing 3 chess games in a row at a tournament, and she didn't want to play for months afterwards!
Ideally, you want to find a way to avoid either extreme. Enjoy your victories, and turn the frustration of your losses into motivational fuel to never repeat the same mistake twice.
2. You work on improving...even when you don't feel like it.
I've heard many successful people give the following sage advice: "Don't rely on motivation. Motivation is fleeting; it comes and goes. Rely on discipline."
Judging by the number of people who break their New Year's Resolutions before January ends each year, this is easier said than done. How bad do you want the result? If you want it bad enough, you need to put in the work consistently - not just when you happen to be "feeling it!"
3. You have a Learner's Mindset
Do you enjoy the process of learning? Do you derive enjoyment from overcoming your weaknesses and building upon your strengths? If so, mastering chess might be in your future.
Many people say they do...but their actions speak otherwise! Are you humble enough to accept and implement advice from higher-rated players? Or do you get "offended" when someone points out your mistakes? Do you mostly play with lower-rated players so you can win a lot and pat yourself on the back, or do you play competition that challenges you whenever possible so you can learn from them?
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So, what do you think? What's the most important quality for a future chess master in your mind? Let me know in the comments.
Whether you have all these traits are not...becoming a Master is hard work! It took me way too long to achieve, and that's why I'm trying to help as many people as I can to achieve it in a fraction of the time.
If you want me to help you become the best chess player you can be, make sure you visit ChessPathways.com and get signed up! It's totally free, only takes 5 seconds, and I'll even send you a free "Move-by-Move Guide to Chess Thinking" when you join our community.
I'll see you there!
Blake
