I play chess daily.
And typically when I am opening for White I open with the Italian Game.
1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4
It is a versatile opening I have played hundreds of times before, usually resulting in a middle game setup with strong defenses and a rock-solid pawn structure. The Italian Game is my old faithful, my go to opening, my first instinctual move.
Occasionally though, for some curious reason I cannot understand, my brain tells me the Italian Game is not to be played. Instead it chooses some random piece to move, probably from some obscure opening I am not familiar with, and I embark on a new chess journey. Stats indicate that this unplanned, irregular decision is not a wise one as my loss percentage increases. Regardless of the outcome these matches are often my favorites. They bring new setups. I get attacked in new ways. I struggle. I learn, and in turn I become a better player.
My life is a bit like chess.
Each day typically follows a similar schedule that leads to similar outcomes. I get up in the morning; I get the kids fed, dressed, and off to school; I go to the coffee shop for a dose of caffeine; and then I sit down in front of the computer to get some work done. This is my opening move, and if I do not make modifications to it every now and then a sense of boredom and dullness sets in.
Of course I am obligated to take care of the kids each morning, that will never change, but when listlessness begins it is time for a new game. Rather than parking myself in front of a screen all day I head out to explore something new. I go hiking through the tropical rainforest of Panama. I hit up the beach for some surf. I keep the kids out of school and spend the day searching for strange insects and creatures. I do something new, and in turn I learn to live just a little bit better.
The importance of taking time off from your daily routine and exposing yourself to the unfamiliar is not to be underestimated. New experiences expand your comfort zone and help to make you stronger as an individual. They can inspire you and restore your sense of vigor so that you are able to resume your daily routine with new found energy.
A small challenge to you.
Forgo your obligations for the day and do something you have never done before - something challenging that tests your level of comfort. Be crazy and start your game with pawn to f3.
The choice is yours.