Since finishing my post graduate diploma studies in mental health, I now have some time to think about my current chess level and where I want to be.

My first short term goal is to reach 2000 ELO.

My online rating on chess.com has been stagnant for quite some time, hoovering around 1900.

On Lichess Classical, my rating has taken a dip from 2100’s to 2000’s. I’m not too bothered (or maybe I should be?) for I was distracted slightly during my post graduate exams.

In the interim, I do want to achieve the following goals:

1. Break 2000 elo for both Chess.com in Rapid And Blitz Time control
2. Maintain 2100 elo for lichess.org Classical Time control.
3. Break 1800 ELO on chesstempo puzzles
4. Qualify for National Chess Finals (optiona)

I think this is in line with my S.M.A.R.T goals.

Sometimes you acquire knowledge in other discliplines which can help with the study of chess.

I studied this ACRONYM recently in Medicine which I find useful in the study of chess.

SMART =

1. Specific
2. Measurable
3. Achievable
4. Relevant
5. Time Based.

I”m going to apply the above framework in my chess studies and see how far it goes.

Finally! No more post graduate medical exams!

I can finally concentrate a little more on chess.

Guess what? I’ve decided to sign up for the National Qualifiers in my country just to try my hand at seeing whether I can qualify to play for the National Championship.

I’ve come to a point in my chess journey to recognise that ELO is a reflection of your chess strength. If you’re strong, you’re strong. Whether you play kids/adults, it doesn’t matter.

Chess is chess. I think on any day, even an amateur can scalp a GM.

For my chess training during this period, I”m going to basically focus on mainly middle/endgames and concentrate on solidifying my opening lines adding a mixture of variety here and there just to keep my opponents guessing.

My chess training plan is simple:

1. to keep things fun and engaging
2. to keep things simple
3. to keep at it (consistent)