Chess as a Catalyst for Change: A Player's Journey from Addiction to 2400 ELO
In a remarkable story of personal transformation, a chess enthusiast has revealed how swapping a debilitating substance addiction for dedicated chess study propelled him to an impressive 2400 ELO rating on the popular online platform Lichess. The player, who uses the Reddit username peaked_in_high_skool, detailed his path from struggle to success, highlighting chess as a pivotal tool in his recovery and growth.
The Turning Point: From Hopelessness to Chess Discovery
The journey began in 2020 when the player was grappling with what he described as a "hopeless addiction" to marijuana. At that time, his chess skills were modest, hovering around a 1200 ELO rating. While under the influence, he stumbled upon videos by renowned chess YouTuber Antonio 'Agadmator' Radić, particularly those featuring the legendary former world champion Mikhail Tal. "His attacking style + Antonio's commentary + influence of marijuana made his games seem like a work of art," he recounted, sparking an initial fascination with the game.
Diving Deeper: Aggressive Openings and Increased Focus
As his interest grew, he started exploring aggressive chess openings like the Fried Liver Attack. However, encountering opponents who could effectively counter these strategies motivated him to invest more time in serious study. "The more time I spent learning these, the less time I had left to think about my life and spiral into substance abuse," he explained. This shift in focus gradually reduced the mental space devoted to addictive behaviors, though he acknowledged it felt "like one addiction replacing another." Crucially, he noted that chess, unlike his previous habits, was not detrimental to his well-being.
Sustaining Recovery and Achieving Milestones
In a follow-up update posted several years later, the player shared that chess continued to be a cornerstone of his recovery, even through challenges. "I relapsed many times, but kept coming back to Chess and using it to suppress relapses. And in tandem, I managed to cross 2400 on Lichess a few months ago," he wrote. A screenshot accompanying his post verified a peak rating of 2425 ELO, marking a significant achievement from his starting point.
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned and Future Plans
Now feeling prepared to step away from competitive chess, the player reflected on how the game had served its purpose in his life. He credited chess with imparting valuable skills such as discipline and analytical thinking, while leaving the door open for a potential return to the game later. The chess community responded warmly, offering congratulations and best wishes for his next endeavors, underscoring the supportive nature of online platforms in fostering positive change.
