My Chess Journey

Okay, let me just say, I was like, "Oh my God, this is it!" My love for chess started in the most random way imaginable. I was just casually browsing on my computer one lazy afternoon when I stumbled across a chess app. That tiny icon didn’t look like much—but little did I know, clicking it would kickstart a journey that would genuinely change my life.

At first, I was just messing around, playing the bot on easy mode, not really taking it seriously. But something about the way the pieces moved, the strategy, the need to think ahead—it was oddly satisfying. And before I knew it, I was hooked. Every win gave me a rush. Every loss made me more determined. It wasn’t just a game; it felt like a challenge to my mind.

Then came the real game-changer—Chess.com.

When I discovered Chess.com, my entire world of chess exploded. I was like, "Wait... I can play with people from all over the world?!" Suddenly, I wasn’t just playing bots anymore—I was battling real opponents, each with their own style, tricks, and speed. The adrenaline rush I got from bullet and blitz games was next-level. We're talking rapid-fire moves, split-second decisions, intense focus—the kind of thrill that makes your heart race.For me, chess isn’t just a hobby—it’s my escape. On days when life feels overwhelming, when I'm stressed or just need a break, I open the app, start a game, and everything else fades away. It’s like therapy wrapped in a game. The laser-sharp focus it demands pulls me out of whatever funk I’m in and brings me into the moment.

And I’ve got to give credit where it's due—Samay Raina and Sagar Shah deserve a massive shoutout. Their live streams on YouTube? Absolute gold. The way they blend sharp commentary with humor, banter, and genuine passion for the game? It’s magic. They’ve completely changed the way I view chess. Thanks to them, I realized that chess isn’t just about silence and serious faces—it’s also about community, laughter, learning, and fun.

I even started following tournaments, watching classic games, learning openings, and analyzing my own mistakes. I never thought I’d become that person—the one watching grandmaster games like others watch football or cricket. But here I am, totally in it. And loving every moment.

Looking back, picking up chess has genuinely been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s no longer just a game I play when I’m bored—it’s a passion. A companion. A way to grow, challenge myself, and find joy even in the most ordinary moments.

Chess has taught me patience, discipline, and resilience. But more than anything, it’s brought me happiness. And in this crazy ride called life, I think that’s what we’re all chasing.