I used to play Chess in 2015/16 as a hobby, and actively introduced people into the game. But going into the university shortly after changed a lot of things. Why? I was a student in the department of Physics and Electronics, and time wasn't something I had much of. If I were studying a course that was less rigorous, things may have been different. Physics wasn't tough for me, but the problem was how I managed my time. I barely attended classes, as things felt too easy, but I spent most of my time studying and tutoring.
I often came across students playing chess in my university RC (relaxation center) but I never thought of joining them at any point, as all I had in mind was either studying or tutoring. The only time I played chess in university was on my matriculation day, as it was the only activity that suited my introverted nature. This took place in the physics lab, as that was my second favourite place.
I was a straight As student, so grades were the only thing I cared about at the time. Thinking back, I think it was an identity problem, as it was the only way I felt relevant. So, chess and every other non-academic hobby became a memory. Years passed, and I didn't remember that chess once existed in my vocabulary until mid 2024, three years after graduating. I passed by a vendor while taking a walk, and saw a chess board for sale. This got my attention, and I dived back into the world of chess.
Passion Reignited
My passion for chess got reignited at that very moment, and I've spent time learning, studying and playing games ever since. I play both over the board and online, and have improved a lot (or so I think). My mid-games are still quite shitty, but my endgames are quite interesting. Queen and Rook endgames are my favourites.
Playing chess again has reignited something in me. Something I last felt in university. Relevance. Back then, academics and grades was all that gave me an identity, as the only way I felt relevant was recognition through my mental prowess. Chess makes me feel the same again. Why? Because it's basically a game of strategy, tactics, and psychological warfare to outsmart your opponent. It provides an environment where my mind feels alive again.
Difficulties Encountered
Lately, it feels like I’ve run into a major roadblock, one that's slowing down my progress in chess. The issue is, while I've been playing with different opponents online through Chess.com and Lichess, which has helped me improve, I haven't had the same kind of significant progress over the board. This is mainly due to having access to a limited number of people to play with in person.
The gap between virtual and physical play
In person, I only get to play with three people. A friend (who lives close to me), my cousin (whenever he comes visiting), and a neighbour. This is very limited, which means I don't get to practice much or see things from a different perspective, therefore impacting my ability to improve over the board.
One could argue that it wouldn't matter since I already play with a variety of players online, and knowledge could simply be transferred. In theory, this makes sense, but in reality, just a slight difference in perception could significantly influence the experience and the outcome.
Hikaru Nakamura is a typical example of this. He's the second best chess player in the world, yet has also admitted the gap between virtual and physical play. Over the board, he sometimes makes blunders he wouldn’t normally make when playing online, proving how much chess isn't just about wits and strategy but equally of perception.
A Potential Solution
Generally, the best way to improve chess gameplay is by playing. This applies to both OTB (over the board) and online. One plausible solution is to join a chess community in my neighbourhood, unfortunately, there is none. Neither is there a park I can walk into and set up a board with the hope that someone approaches to play.
I've decided that the best solution would be to go to the nearest university (about 6.7km away) during the weekends, set up table at the activity center or the sport complex, and see who approaches. I know this would work, as I've seen this happen over the years, as a student in my university. I would take this approach and see how it shapes my progress in the long run.
Chess is more than a game to me. It's something that gives me relevance and a sense of identity and purpose. And that's enough reason to keep pushing.