I am trying to beat the guy sitting across from me and trying to choose the moves that are most unpleasant for him and his style.

I started by just sitting by the chessboard exploring things. I didn't even have books at first, and I just played by myself. I learnt a lot from that, and I feel that it is a big reason why I now have a good intuitive understanding of chess.

Self-confidence is very important. If you don't think you can win, you will take cowardly decisions in the crucial moments, out of sheer respect for your opponent. You see the opportunity but also greater limitations than you should. I have always believed in what I do on the chessboard, even when I had no objective reason to. It is better to overestimate your prospects than underestimate them.

I've never really had a favorite player, past or present.

When you have fun then you're more interested in learning.

I'm more interested in the games than the people.

Contrary to many young Colleagues, I do believe that it makes sense to study the Classics.