Your reasons for playing chess?

I would like everyone to summarize their reasons for playing chess in one word, with maybe a few sentences afterword explaining those reasons. 

the real reason is I enjoy learning and having a hobby I can be good at.

Primarily, to improve my focus and thinking ability. And I enjoy learning new complex things.

Addiction.  Reasonably harmless compared to some.  Don't ask how I know. 

Dopamine.

I hate chess

One word? That's hard...is there a single word that can express how little of a life I have and how chess gives me something to do instead of sitting on my butt all day?

+1 

Its fun. Better than call of duty

It's cool. 😎

Its a game i enjoy. 

For the look on people's faces after they ask "So, are you in a club, or do you just play with yourself?".

I am happy when playing chess. Somehow the heartaches, failures and bad memories go away. That even for just a few hours or minutes, I feel good about myself.

Right on. I feel you. 

escapism...

Stability. Suffering from anxiety and depression, chess gives me some focus to the point where I spend hours studying openings and games. 

Started playing chess because I thought that it can improve my analytical thinking and decision making. To my surprise, now I get out of it more than only those things.

It is fun and exciting. 

chess is the only thing in which i can win & feel good about myself plus the only game i know properly