gowan wrote:I think the "lose 50 games" should be amended by adding lose 50 games in which you pay attention and think about your moves. If you just throw stones around and don't pay attention to what happens you'll never get any better. If you pay attention and think about your moves (have goals and plans) you'll learn and probably improve around 10 to 15 ranks. It also should reassure beginners that they are going to lose a lot of games in the "getting started" phase. We do see a lot of posts from people who are upset about losing a lot.
I don't think humans can play a game they are genuinely interested in and not try their utmost to win. I just don't think human psychology allows that. As such, I'm not really convinced that this amend is necessary. I'd say it's a far more common problem that they get anxious about all the considerations involved and just feel they're not playing well enough and give up on the game because they're too bad at it. The proverb that encourages losing is a pretty good way to prevent people from getting depressed over the fact that they are going to lose despite their best efforts.
Say, I lost some 100 games in row when I started. I then won a couple, my 10th win bringing me to 14k rating. In other words, I have only won 9 games while I was 15kyu or below. As such, I'm thinking this proverb is pretty good at preventing you from just thinking you're too bad and giving up.