"Self-confidence is very important. If you don't think you can win, you will take cowardly decisions in the crucial moments, out of sheer respect for your opponent. You see the opportunity but also greater limitations than you should. I have always believed in what I do on the chessboard, even when I had no objective reason to. It is better to overestimate your prospects than underestimate them"

Self-confidence forms the backbone of one's ability to perform under pressure, especially in high-stakes fields such as chess. When facing a formidable opponent or a challenging situation, doubt often manifests as caution, leading to decisions that prioritize safety over ambition. Magnus Carlsen suggests that lacking belief in your ability to succeed inevitably results in overly cautious, even timid choices at pivotal moments. This is not merely a matter of avoiding risk; it is a consequence of according your opposition too much respect. Such over-cautiousness is born from an internal narrative that magnifies the strengths of the opponent while highlighting your own weaknesses or perceived disadvantages.

The crux of Carlsen’s perspective rests on the idea that opportunity in any scenario is inherently double-edged: it is visible to those searching for it, but so are the perceived limitations and potential dangers. When confidence is low, these limitations appear exaggerated, overshadowing potential avenues of success. The risk is not just losing the game but never fully grasping the chances to win due to self-imposed constraints. Conversely, a strong belief in one's abilities, even if not objectively justified by current evidence or past results, can encourage bold, creative decisions. Such optimism fuels positive performance, as it propels players to take calculated risks, innovate, and maximize every promising situation.

Carlsen’s admission that he has maintained belief in his chess even without objective reasons highlights that self-confidence often precedes actual achievement. Psychological readiness and an assertive mindset can bridge the gap between mediocrity and excellence. He ultimately champions overestimating your prospects rather than underestimating them, arguing that undue humility can be more damaging than overambition. By having faith in your skills, you grant yourself the freedom to embrace opportunities, push boundaries, and take ownership of your success, even in the face of uncertainty.