Mindful Monday: Embracing "Delusion" to Drive Success

In chess, as in life, there are moments when success requires a touch of what others might call "delusion." The belief that you can achieve something extraordinary—even when logic, circumstances, or others suggest otherwise—is often the spark that ignites the fire of greatness.

If you never know failure you will never know success.

Think about a chessboard: you're in a difficult position, and defeat seems imminent. But then you notice an unconventional idea—a bold sacrifice or a sneaky counterattack that others might dismiss as reckless or unlikely to work. Pursuing that path requires belief, even when the odds seem stacked against you. This mindset is often the key to unlocking opportunities that others overlook.

Many chess players—especially those striving for lofty goals like earning a FIDE title or breaking through a rating barrier—face a similar test off the board. When you tell others your dream, you may hear doubt: "Do you know how hard that is?" or "Only a few people ever achieve that." But here’s the truth: self-belief is the fuel that powers success.

The journey toward greatness begins with an unwavering belief in yourself, even when others don’t see your potential.

Chess legends like Bobby Fischer and Magnus Carlsen were once ambitious dreamers with big goals that seemed far-fetched. But their success didn’t come from blind confidence—it came from combining their vision with relentless work.

And that’s the key. What some call "delusion" isn’t about ignoring reality; it’s about seeing possibilities others can’t. It’s about believing that your dreams are worth pursuing, even if the path is long and filled with obstacles. That belief becomes meaningful when you act on it. Study openings, analyze your losses, sharpen your tactics, and play in tournaments that push you beyond your comfort zone.

As Garry Kasparov once said, "If you don’t have confidence, you will always find a way not to win." 

Confidence doesn’t guarantee success, but without it, failure becomes certain.

Your belief in your ability is the foundation for consistent growth.

We say it time and time again, but Emanuel Lasker’s advice is still profound: "When you see a good move, look for a better one." That’s the mindset of someone who never settles, who knows there’s always room for improvement. If you dream of achieving a high rating or a coveted title, pair your belief with hard work and resilience.

On this Mindful Monday, take a moment to reflect on your chess journey and your goals. Are you aiming for a rating, a title, or simply striving to be the best player you can be? Whatever your ambition, hold onto it fiercely, even if others doubt you. Let their skepticism be your motivation.

The chessboard teaches us that no position is hopeless as long as you can still make a move. So make your next move boldly. Your belief in your vision—even if it feels a little "delusional"—may be exactly what leads you to victory.

Happy Hunting,

-Coach