Okay, here are my goals for 2024. Last year I struggled to find time for chess, but that is okay and I am excited to see how this year pans out!
- Deepen my understanding of 1.d4. I plan on opening with d4 in my games, but I may sprinkle some 1.e4 in as well to keep my understanding of 1.e4 positions sharp.
- Read three books. Chess Structures – A Grandmaster Guide by Mauricio Flores Rios, Pawn Structure Chess by Andrew Soltis & Mastering Chess Strategy by Johan Hellsten.
- Participate in an OTB Tournament. I am planning to play in the Newcastle Open this year. I would love to have some classical games to annotate too.
- Daily tactics. Complete 1 Survival Puzzle Rush, Lichess Puzzle Streak or at least a few puzzles every single day.
- Study openings. I want to deepen my opening understanding. I enjoy studying openings and I feel like I have so much to learn still.
- Analyse and annotate one game a week – This can be any time control, but a thoughtful analysis of at least one game a week.
- Eat healthier. I want to focus on healthy eating and exercise this year. It can only have a positive impact on my chess.
- Write – I want to continue blogging and sharing about my chess journey.
- Enjoy chess – I don’t want to burn myself out or find that chess is a chore. It is something fun to be enjoyed and I try to keep things in perspective. We will see how much time I have this year to devote to chess and if I can achieve these goals, but I will maintain a positive attitude in order to enjoy the game.