Thanks for the reply. Yes, I completely agree with that, actually that is obvious. I will try and find a game and example to better explain my mind... I realize I am not being very clear here about the "fart" in my head. Stay tuned...
Temptation

I am not sure to to show you this game? Here is a link:
http://www.chess.com/games/view.html?id=121295
This is a good example, review the game. There were moves I was completely confused by the decisions made on both sides. Mid Game, I thought white should have taken the rook a move earlier with the queen. After white finally took the rook, the black bishop could have trapped the white queen. However, both sides progressed with positional development and I just do not get it. "YET!"
I have a previous post an hour ago about my frustrations, but I think this question gets to the heart of what is going on in my head.
How do you avoid temptation?? Two pieces, say pawns, are eye to eye and you do not exchange them? I understand this on some levels, improve your position, position, position. However, I review some games by GM's and they do not exchange queens or rooks or whatever, but I look at the positions and say "why?" I cringe because taking a major piece seems like such a winning advantage.
I watched IM Rensch's video, "Everything you need to know: the opening." Great video, and he suggested to not move a piece twice. This makes sense and has actually improved my game, but this does not always work.
I am actually answering my own question as I post this topic. GM's are seriously calculating like 5-10 moves in advance?? How can you predict an opponents move??
So, that said, maybe 2 years ago Chess "clicked" in my head, I just started getting it. I want to get to that next level of understanding... is there another "click" regarding chess and my brain I am waiting for and what tips does anyone have to get there?
Any comment appreciated, but I would prefer answers from players who are 1800 or better, no offense.