
The Power Of Form And Presence
Why does classical ballet training in Russia emphasize developing perfect technique from a very young age (3-5 years old)?
I pondered this question as I started a workout at my local gym - my first workout in far too long - following through on a commitment I made to my coach.
In my case, my main reason for focusing on 'form' with the machines (practicing with the lowest possible weight at first) was to minimize the risk of injury, and ensure I was using the machines correctly before later moving to more difficult weights.
However, there was another, more surprising, benefit to focusing on form.
My mind was clear.
Almost no intrusive thoughts invaded my head for the full half hour (even with the background pop music playing).
Only when you're able to turn off the mind chatter, and be here, in the now, dp you regain agency over your life (as opposed to your mind and emotions).
Only when you get 'in the zone' - fully focused and present in your current action - can you show your full potential.
The biggest thing that helped me improve when I was already a Grandmaster, funnily enough, was not the advanced strategies I studied, but rather, mastering the fundamentals.
Making sure I never missed a simple tactic.
Knowing the model games from my openings (so I could play the middlegames well).
Having routines to get present and 'in the zone' for my games, and only playing when I felt in that right headspace.
There are many terms for it - sports psychology in sports, mental game in poker, inner peace in spirituality, mindset in self-improvement - but ultimately, staying humble and constantly refining your fundamentals is what will separate you from the pack.
By the way, here's my first rated bullet game in about 6 months: