"Toujours rester soi-même, jouer aux échecs, pas aux dames et toujours jouer le long terme."

Being yourself means embracing your true identity, not just the surface-level you. It's essential to live authentically, not bending to fit someone else’s expectations. Now, when we talk about chess versus checkers, it’s a metaphor for strategy – chess requires thinking several steps ahead, while checkers is more about immediate moves. And playing the long game? That’s about patience, persistence, and doing things with a long-term vision.

Imagine this: You're in high school, figuring out where you fit in. Social pressures are insane, right? Everyone’s trying to be someone they’re not just to fit in. But there’s power in being true to yourself. Think about it – the high school experience is often short-sighted, much like checkers. People are focused on the now, the immediate. But if you play chess, you’re considering the future. Maybe you’re passionate about coding, sports, or art. It might not be the popular route, but sticking with your passion and honing that skill can set you up for long-term success.

A real-world example? Look at Steve Jobs. He wasn’t your typical businessman. He was quirky, often difficult, and didn’t conform to the usual corporate mold. But he stayed true to his vision and played the long game. He wasn’t after quick wins but was focused on creating revolutionary products that would change the industry. His approach was strategic, much like playing chess. He anticipated market needs before people even realized they had them.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by identifying what you genuinely love and are passionate about. It sounds cliché, but it's true. Don’t just go along with what’s trendy or what others expect of you. Embrace your quirks and passions. Then, think strategically. Don’t just make decisions for immediate gratification. Consider how your actions today will impact your future. Maybe it’s investing time in learning a new skill, even if it’s tough now, because it will pay off in the long run.

Let’s bring it home with a relatable scenario. Imagine you’re at your first job. Your boss is pushing for quick results, quick wins. It’s tempting to cut corners, do the bare minimum just to get by. But if you think long-term, you’ll realize that building a strong foundation, even if it takes more time and effort, is more beneficial. You’re not just thinking about your current role, but your career trajectory. By investing in your skills, networking, and building a reputation for quality work, you’re setting yourself up for better opportunities down the line.

In short, being yourself and thinking strategically about the future is crucial. It’s not always the easiest path, and it might not give you immediate rewards. But, just like in chess, those who think several moves ahead are often the ones who succeed in the end. So, embrace who you are, think strategically, and keep your eyes on the long-term goal. You’ve got this.