How to deal with attention problems (Possibly ADHD) when playing chess?

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R0jym

Hello, I have this certain problem where I commonly give away winning positions or lose a certain line or variation I am calculating because I cannot seem to focus on calculating accurately and clearly as I always seem to be constantly distracted by sounds or visuals, I'm starting to think that I may have ADHD as this has been persistent, I also cannot seem to stay still in one position while I sit, so every time I play, I often end up moving a lot on my chair which is also distracting me as well, how should I maximize my willpower and attention to prioritize my focus on playing chess? Or calculation specifically? Thanks.

tygxc

@1

"I commonly give away winning positions" ++ Most experience that problem. Stay focussed when winning, do not relax, do not daydream about winning.

"I cannot seem to focus on calculating accurately" ++ It is hard to calculate accurately and clearly

"I always seem to be constantly distracted by sounds" ++ You can put your thumbs in your ears.

"or visuals" ++ Look at the board only. You can hold your hands on your temples.

"I may have ADHD" ++ This should a doctor diagnose.

"I also cannot seem to stay still in one position while I sit" ++ It is Ok to move in your chair.

"moving a lot on my chair which is also distracting" ++ If it distracts you, then do not do it. You may be unable to control external sounds or visuals, but you can control your own movement.

"how should I maximize my willpower" ++ If you want it, then you can.

"calculation specifically?" ++ Calculation is a skill that comes with practice.

CraigIreland

The first step is to speak to your primary healthcare provider who will assess you and refer you to a specialist if they think it's necessary. They'll probably want to know about your ability to concentrate and focus in areas beyond Chess. If your symptoms have never emerged at school or work and only while playing Chess, then there's a good chance that it's a self misdiagnosis.