In chess it is accepted practice to follow the norm or make moves based on the usual course of action for a given situation. This is true in the opening of the game where volumes have been written on what move you should make in response to your opponents. But what if your opponent doesn’t make the move you anticipated or the move the book said should be made, then what? You’ve wasted time memorizing moves from a book that you can’t use in your game. Every situation is different. There may be similarities, but for the most part no ton scenarios are the same. Planning before a game is essential but also planning for things you didn’t plan for and making adjustments are even more essential.
Life is pretty much the same way. It throws situations at you that you didn’t
anticipate or plan for. Millions of books are on the shelves on what to do and
how to handle certain things and situations. Some are helpful, but every
person’s predicament vary to such degree that it is impossible to predict how a
person should handle it. However, as if in a comatose state, people follow
directions by an author who doesn’t know them, care about them and have no idea about their situation. If things didn’t go the way the book stated then what? How do you handle it? Just like in chess you have to make adjustments and remain focused on your goal or objective. In chess the goal is winning the game, in life it can be something that you are striving to obtain. The hope of future achievement is the fuel that keeps the fire burning. Don’t follow the usual
response like a zombie. Think on the fly, make the necessary adjustments, and
cut your own path and win...in chess and life.