Overpressing in Chess: A Personal Reflection on Egoism and Improvement

Title: Overpressing in Chess: A Personal Reflection on Egoism and Self-Sabotage

In a recent revelation while reading Johnathan Rowson’s book Seven Deadly Chess Sins, a chess player came to a profound realization about their own gameplay. Instead of being outplayed by opponents, they discovered that they were often their own worst enemy, succumbing to the pitfalls of egoism and overpressing.

Egoism, as described by Rowson, is the tendency for players to become overly attached to their position or the idea of winning, leading to unnecessary aggression and forcing moves that are not justified by the position. This player recognized that their desire to control the game and force a win often led to critical mistakes and vulnerabilities that their opponents capitalized on.

The player identified impatience, ego, and fear of inactivity as driving forces behind their overpressing tendencies. They realized that embracing objectivity, practicing patience, playing solidly, and watching for their own weaknesses were key strategies to combat this detrimental behavior.

By acknowledging their own shortcomings and committing to a more patient and objective approach to their games, the player aims to improve their consistency and reach the Expert level in chess. They understand that chess is not about proving oneself or forcing a win, but about making the best moves based on the position at hand.

This personal reflection on overpressing in chess serves as a valuable lesson for players looking to elevate their game and overcome self-sabotaging tendencies. It highlights the importance of self-awareness, strategic thinking, and a willingness to adapt and improve in order to reach new heights in the game of chess.