Varying Degrees of Difficulty

Is it just me, or are there really levels to this?

Yes, of course, there's ELO—there's a big difference between a 2000 and a 1200. But that’s not what I mean. I'm talking about the "when" of playing chess. I’ve noticed that on certain days and at certain times, the level of play from similarly rated opponents varies—sometimes drastically. Playing on a Monday morning is NOT the same as playing on a Saturday.

At my current blitz rating of 800-850, I expect some level of consistency in my win/loss pattern. On weekdays, I might win 4–5 games in a row, then lose or draw a couple, and the cycle repeats. But on weekends, the games feel significantly harder. If I lose three in a row, I know it’s time to walk away because tilt is real. But I wonder—what’s the reason behind this?

Are weekends when the more serious players log in? Are these "club players," as I’ve seen them called in books? I’ve faced 600-rated opponents making moves that seem way too advanced for their level. But then, I remind myself—I don’t devote nearly as much time to chess as others might.

It’s often said, "You're not human until you reach 1500." I disregard this because, if I subscribed to that mindset, I probably wouldn’t play chess at all. I can understand high-level ideas, but I also recognize gaps in my own play, especially when solving puzzles or watching GM games. Even top players blunder.

Ultimately, I just want to start a conversation. Have others noticed this phenomenon? Does it make sense to push for a higher rating, or is that just an ego-driven pursuit? Let me know your thoughts—I’d love to hear from other players experiencing the same thing.