Written by Barbara Dizdarević
Chess, often hailed as the game of kings, is a timeless pursuit that transcends mere entertainment. Its allure lies in the intricate dance of strategy and tactics, where every move holds the potential to shape the course of the game. Within the confines of its 64 squares, players navigate a labyrinth of possibilities, their minds engaged in a symphony of calculation and foresight. Beyond its surface appeal, chess serves as a microcosm of life itself, reflecting the ebbs and flows of triumph and setback, teaching patience, resilience, and the art of calculated risk-taking. With each match, the player embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering the depths of their intellect and the nuances of their character. Whether played casually among friends or on the grand stage of international competition, chess remains a testament to the enduring power of human intellect and the beauty of strategic mastery.
When I was just three, I developed a big interest in chess, as my mom often tells the story. While my dad taught my older brother, I watched closely, eager to learn. Even when my brother went to school, I’d bug my dad to teach me and play with me whenever he was home. I was totally hooked.
By the time I was five, while living in Botswana, I started winning chess tournaments. I was so small that they had to lift me up on the table to hand over the trophies. Chess was my world for the first 18 years of my life – I played in national, European, and world championships across the globe. Throughout life, chess has been a source of incredible friendships, deep connections, and unforgettable experiences. Beyond the external realm, the game has enriched me internally as well, developing my problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, forward-planning, sharpening my focus and always keeping me alert. It has proven to be immensely fulfilling on every level, shaping my journey with its profound lessons and rewarding challenges. These qualities have undoubtedly proven to be invaluable assets in various aspects of my life, laying a solid foundation for resilience in the face of challenges.
Then life took me in a different direction. I moved to the USA for work, which meant I couldn’t play chess as much. But it also led me on a spiritual journey that brought me a lot of peace. Meeting my spiritual guide, Mohanji, was a transformative experience that set me on a path towards living a more conscious and fulfilling life. His guidance has been a beacon of light, illuminating my journey with wisdom and compassion, inspiring me to embrace awareness and purpose in all aspects of my existence. Along the way, I started volunteering for the Mohanji Foundation, completed my studies in business, became a certified yoga teacher, started a company, and now I’m pursuing my Master’s degree in International Business in Switzerland.
After taking a long break, in 2023 I hopped back into chess with an online blitz game, and wow, I was blown away by all the amazing benefits it offers! It’s like a brain boot camp – it boosts brainpower, enhances memory, sharpens quick thinking, encourages efficient planning, practices awareness, all wrapped up in one game. It’s like a brain workout that keeps you sharp and on your toes. That’s when I knew I definitely wanted to get back in the game. Once you love it, it’s hard to stay away. I don’t know why I fell in love with chess so early on, but now I see it as a beautiful way to express myself and practice awareness at the same time. It’s like life in a way – sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Your personality really comes out in a game of chess.
Last week, I competed in the women’s league of Belgrade representing my chess club, PTT, in Serbia. Although expected but still challenging, we pulled off a perfect score with 5 wins out of 5 matches, qualifying for the 1st league of Serbia, happening in September 2024.
It’s fascinating to see how I’ve evolved as a chess player compared to a decade ago when I was at my peak. Just like in life, impatience can trip me up in chess too. Recently, I found myself getting antsy during a game, but thanks to my practice of awareness, I caught myself before things went south. I kept my cool, strategized calmly, and eventually clinched the win. When I reflect on the peak of my career years ago, it wasn’t just about enjoying the game anymore; it was mostly focused on competition and victory. The mounting stress played a significant role in my decision to step back. Now, winning isn’t the main goal anymore. I approach each game with complete awareness and sincerity, as I’m not able to engage in anything half-heartedly.
Mohanji talks about being aware and conscious, and through chess I perfect that. During those long games, sometimes lasting four or even five hours, I get to really focus and connect with myself. It’s like spiritual practice. During a game, just like in life, I do a lot of reflection, evaluating my performance and brainstorming ways to improve. Spiritual stability has taught me to bounce back gracefully from losses. I give my all in every move, knowing that there’s always room to grow – it’s a journey, not a destination. Spirituality isn’t something separate from everyday life; it’s a guiding force that offers stability, especially in the heat of competition. Staying composed and resilient is a game-changer, whether on the chessboard or in life’s challenges.
It is a long way to go in chess, just like in life. But one thing is for sure – the connection between the game and our being is strong, and with the practice of awareness, I’m ready to take on whatever challenges come my way. I’m excited to see where this positive synergy takes me, and I encourage fellow athletes and players to embrace a conscious lifestyle for maximum benefits in all areas of life.
