Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
He noted that willpower alone does not guarantee skill in chess.
In plain terms
Wanting to play well is not enough to play well.
What can you take from it?
Motivation needs skill development to succeed.

Where it applies

  • learning
  • coaching
  • self improvement

Putting it to work

  • practice skills
  • seek training

Questions to consider

  • What builds skill beyond will?
  • How much talent is required?

Another view

Willpower can still impact performance in other ways.

More from Bobby Fischer

  1. Chess is a matter of delicate judgment, knowing when to punch and how to duck.

    Permalink to quote #76
  2. I really love the dark of the night. It helps me to concentrate.

    Permalink to quote #78
  3. Don't even mention losing to me. I can't stand to think of it.

    Permalink to quote #75

Related quotes

  1. You can only get good at chess if you love the game.

    Bobby FischerBobby Fischer quote #56
  2. If you ever have to make a choice between learning and inspiration, choose learning. It works more of the time.

    Lois McMaster BujoldLois McMaster Bujold quote #90
  3. The way to go to the circus, however, is with someone who has seen perhaps one theatrical performance before in his life and that in the High School hall. ... …

    Robert BenchleyRobert Benchley quote #1