Back to Basics

I've been streaming for a year (May marked 12 months), and am still enjoying it. I've watched many streams change and morph...including my own.

And at least in my case, I don't like what it's becoming.

I started streaming to a niche audience - beginners who wanted to improve at chess. Everything I did was designed to meet that purpose. I created a World Chess Championship (WCC) monthly cycle - with Qualifiers, Candidates', and a World Championship Match. I had guess commentators (thanks guys!) at each stage. I reviewed games from each phase, using them to teach not only the players, but the audience as well.

Somewhere along the line, the WCC cycle morphed into just a series of tournaments and matches. I no longer review games. I don't have as many guest commentators. I'm definitely not using them as teaching opportunities.

So what to do?

When I coach individuals and organizations on goal setting I remind them regularly that if what you are doing isn't helping toward your mission (purpose), then stop doing it.

So I have to get Back to Basics. I have to get back to ensuring that what I'm doing focuses on helping beginners improve. So here's my list of things that I'll be doing on stream year two (in no particular order):

• Review books
• Review Games - from beginners to Grand Masters
• Discuss Concepts and Principles (see self-assessment)
• Give 1-on-1 Lessons
• Give group lessons (pick a concept or principle)
• Build puzzles for each concept/principle
• Hold themed tournaments based on concept/principle
• Occasionally, when needed, I will play with viewers

I'm posting this in my blog as a contract, a promise, to my viewership. It's time I get back to my calling and focus on my purpose. It's time for me to get Back to Basics