Improve

My word of the year (taken from all the chess commentary I have listened to): improve. 

In the most colloquial usage we typically apply this to getting measurably better at something specific. 

I want to offer "improve" in a slightly different context: it is a thought process - a compass when the course of action is unclear, your goals are non-deterministic, or a situation is too complex for analysis. 

Back to the chess example; I am stuck in mid-game contemplating the next move, with no clear path to checkmate or an immediate opportunity for a piece capture. I apply simple heuristics - my pieces can be improved if I can place them on a square where they are: in control of more squares on the board, those squares are in a more important area of the board, my pieces are better defended. Is is a simple action without immediate benefits - the strategy is to accumulate a series of mini advantages and allow them to compound to force a recognized and well defined opportunity. This tactic is proven to be remarkably effective. 

I have been applying this thought process to areas outside of chess, and find it likewise extremely powerful: hobbies, career, friendships/relationships, finances. I can evaluate my current position, and I know my target; the path from one to the other is not always clear, so I apply some heuristics, and improve. 

Merry Christmas and an improved new year, 

Misha