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Wednesday, August 26, 2026

More Basketball and Chess

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 What everyday lessons does the game teach us? 

1. Don't be in a hurry to win.

An ill-conceived strategy (e.g. coming out pressing with inferior talent) can expose our limitations before impacting our opponent. Coaches have to read the game, too. 

2. Protect your king. 

Many games are lost not won because of ill-constructed defenses. Exceptional teams invariably balance excellent defenses to complement strong attack. 

3. A pawn can become a queen.

Each player has strategic value and deserves special consideration. That could be on a "press team" or creating a matchup on defense. 

4. The pieces work together.

You cannot win with just a "strong bishop" or a "powerful knight." As in Misaeng, a piece that "has not come into play" can change the game. Work to become that piece.

5. Learn from and love our losses. 

Every loss teaches us lessons if we are curious, open, and thoughtful. 

6. Don't believe you're "the smartest guy in the room." 

Chess taught us that machines (e.g. Deep Blue) could defeat the strongest play. It also taught us that the combination of "man and machine" in Centaur Chess could produce even greater strength. Don't ignore or belittle technology. It is here to help us. 

7. Be on the lookout. 

Watch how our thoughts become words, words become actions, and actions become habits. "Begin with the end in mind" - creating better habits results in better versions of ourselves. 

Lagniappe. Every program benefits from developing its language. 

Lagniappe 2. Develop your 'special situations' practice list. 

 

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