Beyond strategic thinking, what can we learn from the game of Chess?

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Chess is often used as a? powerful metaphor for leadership. With deep strategic elements, and complex decision-making processes, the game is a great tool for guiding leaders through potential challenges and dynamics.?

But beyond strategic thinking, behavioural tactics and decision-making, Chess offers some other interesting insights and ways in which to think about leadership.? ??

Chess players are forward thinkers, and they are also adaptable and flexible.?? Chess requires a fair amount of forward thinking, it also requires you to think on your toes and change direction with no fore-warning.

Great chess players know and optimise the strengths of each of their pieces. Understanding the weak spots and knowing, activating and leveraging the unique strengths of your team, is not unlike knowing how and when to use your chess pieces. Good leaders not only know the individual qualities of their team, they know how to empower them and inspire them, so that the full potential of their strengths can emerge.

Great chess players are present - 100% committed to the present moment.? More than simply having strong focus, they are deeply aware of themselves, their opponents and their environment.?This type of self-awareness and practiced state of presence is critical for great leaders to master.

Great chess players operate from a creative, stress-free frame of mind.? A calm mind, clarity and leading from the stress-free right brain, ignites creative, solutions-based thinking.?

Great chess players are resilient and they learn from their losses.? There’s no such thing as a bad game of chess if you use the lessons and insights to your advantage.

Great chess players play by the rules.? Good leaders have ethical standards and work to foster a culture of integrity in all areas of their life.? This last one, should certainly go without saying.