Andrew Martin and The Basics of Winning Chess Introduction

To some it might seem i am not very active where it comes to studying chess these days, and you're right! I am not. But i am trying to squeeze some in here and there. And one must not forget that i am considering the best of moves almost everyday, in quite some turn-based games i've got going on around the web. And i am still in review mode of PCT. Not that there are that many positions to review yet. About 300+ or so, but it's not like i am doing nothing. And the activity will come again. Anyway, as i said, while trying to squeeze some study in here and there, i decided to start watching a ChessBase DVD that i've got, titled Andrew Martin: The basics of winning chess a few days ago, in which International Master Andrew Martin (who would be on my list of most wanted coaches) is your trainer. I only managed to view the intro though. But never the less, the intro contained one highly instructive game. It shows you very clearly what lack of development can do to you. And vice versa ofcourse :)
Now, the game is played between former world champion Mikhail Tal and Georgi Tringov (click to replay). Again i would like to point out that it's a highly instructive game, due to it's clearness. So i advice you to do replay it. What else have i picked up from the introduction? Well, Andrew Martin tells you that "constantly refering back to basics" is an absolute must! And that it is certainly "NOT" a shame to do so. Not that i am ashamed of going over basic stuff, but someone else might be. But it is exactly the basics on which a game is so often decided. By not following basic principles (for instance) you often find yourself losing games. Also, he tells you to set it as your aim to become an all-round player right at the beginning. Meaning you've got to learn to play the opening well, the middlegame well, and the endgame well. As he believes that today's player, should be an all-round one. Also, he talks about developing mental strength, in order to be ready for the game. He talks about enjoyment of the game. Enjoyment and wanting to win. As it is his belief, that this is the key to getting it right. You have to try and get yourself into a mindstate of enjoyment of the game, which in turn will help you play at your best. Without it, you will not be able to play at your best. Furthermore, he advices that if chess becomes a chore, and you're tired of it, to simply stop playing. Stop, regroup, and come back to it later. Chess should not be addictive, nor compulsive. Anyway, that is roughly what i picked up of the introduction, so if it isn't making any sense, sorry 'bout that :)
I will be commenting about the rest of the DVD's contents as well. So expect to hear more from Andrew Martin: The basics of winning chess. And thank's to everyone outthere for sharing it ;)