Three Lessons from The Queen’s Gambit

Let me start off by stating that I have never played chess nor have I had any interest in the game. Imagine my surprise to be absolutely riveted by an entire Netflix series and story about chess. “The Queen’s Gambit” is a beautiful story about Beth Harmon’s journey to beat all odds through her perseverance and finding self-love. Not to mention the incredible fashion and acting. Alas, this post is not a series review.

I couldn’t stop thinking about the show even days after my binge. I found myself referencing the story in my work and personal life and wanted to share the lessons I’m taking with me. 

Sometimes it’s not about the quick win, it’s about setting up the board. In a world where we’ve been conditioned for quick wins and immediate satisfaction, there is something incredibly beautiful about the discipline it takes to put in the work day to day, including all the big and small sacrifices we make, in service of the long game. It’s hard not to get distracted or taken off course right now, 2020 has been a giver. I’m reminded to stay true to what I’ve set out to do for my team at work and at home. Just keep moving forward.

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. In the series, Beth Harmon falls in love with chess because it offers her solace and control. As she continues to climb the ranks in the chess world, she finds herself lonely and stuck in her growth as a player. It is only through the support and love of her friends that she is able to evolve and ultimately face her biggest game. Make sure to bring the people you care about along for the ride, especially the ones that will tell you where your blind spots are.

For the love of the game. In an effort to not give away the ending, I’ll just say, Beth starts the series as someone who plays chess to win. As the series concludes, it is my take that the last scene is about her finally finding a love for the game. I will be the first to admit that sometimes when things get hard, I lose sight of just enjoying the game. We get stuck on the number of points or lack of points on the board. I started working in communications because I love connecting people and building communities. It is my superpower and one that I get a lot of energy from. Working in a field where I “get” to do this as a living is not lost on me and one I hope not to take for granted.

For those who've seen the series, I'd love to hear if you agree with my takeaways? What other lessons should we glean?