Christien wrote:Okay let me describe my situation a little more. Sometimes when I play I'm calm and relaxed and just play overall much better. I see urgent moves more and overall my game level is much higher. Other times I get agitated while playing and don't play up to par. Because of this, my game is not very stable anymore. I've tried telling myself different things like "I'm gonna win" or I'm gonna play the best game possible" or even "I'm going to lose". However, I can't seem to find a pattern or find something that works. Any tips on how to rectify this?
When I'm feeling unhinged, I try deep breaths first. If that doesn't calm me, I get up and go wash my face with cold water. If that still doesn't work I take a break.
I think Tami said in another thread that if she's feeling like the opponent is rushing her move time, she'll get up and go make a cup of tea.
Basically, if you don't feel you're in a mood for Go, don't force it. You're not a pro, so it doesn't earn you money, and your life doesn't depend on it.
Christien wrote:Thanks everyone I'll try some of your different approaches. I've noticed that I usually play better on the weekend. I usually play to relax after a long day, but I think this is the issue. I come home tired and this affects my play. However, I'm not going to stop playing during the week. I'm thinking I should try blitzing (something I've never really gotten into), so I don't have to think as much.
You can try to disassociate your serious games and casual games. I have a second account where I don't care much about the results, and try unusual openings and moves, and try not to care so much about the result of the game. Playing more intuitively. I don't play blitz, since that just stresses me out much more, although I do play fast(the timelimits are the same though). If blitz helps you disassociate serious and casual games, try that.