Unlike other games like solitaire, crossword puzzles, online games, etc., where you may just play a game to pass time, or just for fun....How would you compare those to a rated game of chess, psychologically speaking?

I have discovered that I have to be "Ready" to play a game of chess.  I don't want to play a casual game, "just for fun" or to kill time.   When I start a game, I take it rather seriously.   In fact, I won't play a game if I'm tired, or not feeling up to battle so speak.   Is this normal or am I just making excuses not to lose?  Maybe chess is making me a lune?  lol  

So....

How do you compare your own chess psyche as opposed to other games?   Do you avoid playing chess when your not up to par or "not feeling it", or do you play casually or just kill time pushing wood in a carefree sort of way?

Well a rated game is not just for fun (it is for me personally, but I play the bongcloud regularly in rated games, so there).

I think that playing under imperfect conditions will help your game. Many writers who make a living of it force themselves to write. They may use something to help get them in the right frame of mind, but they must learn to build creative flow, rather than let it carry them- or not. Chess, I think, is similar- you need creativity but you can't just sit around and wait for it, whether its deciding on a move or a game, or a tournament.

If it's going to be tough competition then yes, I like to feel up to it.  Something like a USCF tournament or visiting a strong club I like to both have good mental energy and get into the right mindset.

For casual or blitz games I don't mind being tired... I know I don't play as well, but those games are just for fun.  I don't really play CC, but they're more on the fun side too even though the losses hurt more than blitz because a lost game can be drawn out for a week or more.

I like the way you word it..."Mental Energy".  I can certainly relate to being up to the task for USCF tourney's etc.   I guess I take my online games just as serious though.   I just have a hard time playing casually.   Perhaps losses are more painful that I like to admit.  

OR, Maybe I just need to challenge ivandh while he has the bongcloud going.....lol 

I've played chess in all sorts of situations and conditions.  Playing speed chess for beers with an evenly matched opponent is a wonderful way to get thoroughly drunk.

For rated OTB events, I try to be serious.  But it is fun playing seriously - the tension and stress give a great thrill.

Rated games here or elsewhere online is different.  The ratings don't really mean anything, so I can't but regard these games as casual.  That's not to say I don't play and fight hard in every game, though - but I do that at blitz or offhand games, too.  I want to win every game.  I play turn-based games here almost as seriously as I used to play snail mail correspondence games years ago - and I qualified for the Golden Knights (US Open) finals six times, and the USCCF Absolute Championship three times (only played in one, though).  Maybe here I am even more ready to try out new opening ideas and speculative pawn sacs, but that's the main difference in approach.

 That is very interesting what you say Tim.  For me there are two kinds of chessplayers....those who only know how the pieces move and those who have chess inside their veins.....

  I seem to play whether I'm dead tired or not. I love the feel that a chess game can give me, whether here or on Fritz. Chess is the only game that can actually give me the boost of energy that I need if I feel I am not up to playing. But playing well is another story. I always look for time during the day to play, and I'm always thinking about it during the course of the day. Even if I get to play only one game, it curbs the need for a fix for a short time

I haven't played in a while. I am scared to get sucked back into the chess vortex.

that vortex is saving me from many mindless activites like watching TV.. LOL

Tim...this is called variant saemish.....it is a very good opening to fight against the KID.

lol

completely agree