What “Chess, Not Checkers” Means (And When to Say It)

PDF download Download Article
Learn how to apply the “chess, not checkers” mindset to your life
PDF download Download Article

The phrase “chess, not checkers” is an idiom inspired by the differences between the games of chess and checkers. Because chess is more strategic than checkers, the phrase refers to planning ahead and thinking about your end goals when making important decisions. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about what the phrase means and when to use it, plus where it came from and how to apply the "chess, not checkers" mindset in your life.

Meaning of "Chess, Not Checkers"

“Playing chess, not checkers” is an expression that means to make strategic decisions rather than impulsive or easy ones. It comes from the idea that the game chess requires more strategy and thought than checkers, which is a relatively simple game. The phrase can be applied to both business and personal decisions.

Section 1 of 4:

What does “chess, not checkers” mean?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This popular idiom comes from the idea that checkers is a simple, straightforward game, while chess requires much more forethought and strategizing. If you’re playing chess, not checkers regarding business or personal decisions, it means you’re planning ahead and thinking about the endgame rather than short term goals. [1]
    • For example, if you choose a job that has great benefits and room for growth over a job that offers a tempting sign-on bonus, you’re playing chess, not checkers by considering how it will benefit you in the long-run.
    • Playing checkers requires you to make quick decisions to capture your opponent’s pieces, which means you get results immediately. There are also fewer moves you can make and directions you can go than in chess.
    • In chess , pieces move in different directions based on their individual role, and it’s often important to sacrifice pieces in order to win the game. You don’t always get results as quickly as you do with checkers. This highlights the importance of strategic thinking.
    2. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

When to Say “Chess, Not Checkers”

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Many business leaders and entrepreneurs adopt the “chess, not checkers” mindset and believe it is a great way to succeed. Think about your long term goals and what strategies you can use to reach them rather than focusing on what’s directly in front of you. Remember the unique skills that you and your coworkers or employees bring to the table, and use those qualities to your advantage. [2]
    • “Each of my employees has unique skills and assets, so I try to assign them tasks that play to their abilities. Running a business is chess, not checkers.”
    • “When choosing a job, think about your endgame. What legacy do you want to leave? Don’t choose something just because it’s easy. Play chess, not checkers.”
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e6\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e6\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The “chess, not checkers” mindset can be applied to almost any aspect of your life, including relationships, financial decisions, and more. Just like in business, it’s important to think about your long term goals and figure out how to work toward them. Don’t let the little things get in your way.
    • “That guy might be flirting with my crush right now, but I’m not worried. He’s playing checkers while I’m playing chess.”
    • “Some people don’t understand why I chose community college over a university, but I’m getting an education and saving money. I’m playing chess, not checkers.”
    • “I suspect my partner might be cheating, but instead of accusing them, I’m going to let them tell on themselves. Chess, not checkers.”
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Many people also use this phrase to indicate that they’re smarter than someone or to make fun of someone for not being as strategic as them. When used this way, it’s a way of saying that you’re a step or two ahead of someone in your current situation. It doesn’t necessarily have to be about important decisions, though it can be.
    • “Look, you’re new around here. You’re still playing checkers while the rest of us are playing chess. You’ll figure things out eventually.”
    • “I always beat my friends at video games because I strategize instead of blindly attacking. They’re playing checkers. I’m playing chess.”
    4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 4:

Where did “chess not checkers” come from?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    “Chess, not checkers” is a common idiom that has existed for a long time, so it’s hard to pinpoint its exact origins. However, the phrase is extremely common with entrepreneurs and business leaders, with many people using it in inspirational speeches. [3]
    • Mark E. Miller even wrote a book titled Chess Not Checkers: Elevate Your Leadership Game .
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    “Chess, not checkers” can apply to many things other than business decisions, however. Many people recognize the quote “This sh*t is chess. It ain’t checkers” from the 2001 Denzel Washington movie Training Day . Others may think of Kobe Bryant describing his opponents: “These young guys are playing checkers. I’m out there playing chess.” [4] Over the years, the idiom has become a part of everyday language.
    • YouTube personality H3H3 has also used the phrase to mock rival SoFloAntonio, which led to it becoming somewhat of a meme among his fans.
    3. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

Applying the "Chess Not Checkers" Mindset

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Whether you’re applying the “chess, not checkers” mindset to your business, relationship, financial, or general life decisions, consider what you’re ultimately working toward. This could be a promotion, marriage, buying a house, etc. While there will be short term goals and distractions along the way, don’t lose sight of your endgame. [5]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Once you’ve established your long term goals , think about what short term goals can help you get there. Break your goals down into actionable steps to help you stay organized. Create a timeline to stay on track, and check in on your plan each time you complete a step. Adjust your action plan as necessary to make sure you’re making the right decisions. [6]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Having a proactive mindset is extremely important to achieving your goals. Anticipate problems ahead of time and look for opportunities to overcome them—just like in chess, when it’s important to anticipate your opponent’s moves. Don’t wait for things to happen and react to them after the fact; take initiative to make things better. [7]
    • For example, if you’re saving up to buy a house, expect setbacks along the way. Your car could break down or you may get injured, which would require you to spend some of the money you have saved up. Be proactive by having an emergency fund set aside so you don’t have to react by taking money out of your house fund.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Chess-Not-Checkers-Meaning-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In chess, it’s important to know how each piece works and moves so you can make the best decisions. If you jump right in without strategizing, it may cost you the game. Similarly, if you keep running into roadblocks while trying to achieve your goals, stop and think about what’s happening. If you keep facing the same problems over and over, it’s likely an issue with your strategy. Stop and reevaluate your plans before continuing. [8]
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Not every decision you make has to involve the “chess, not checkers” mindset. Sometimes, it’s okay to make decisions in the moment.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      What Does “Pookie” Mean? Plus, How to Use It
      200+ Best Expressions to Say “I Love You More than…”
      What Does W/ Mean over Text or Online?
      What's a Twunk? Definition, When to Use & More
      What Does “Awww” Mean? Definition, Responses & More
      Signs That Someone Has "Golden Retriever Energy"
      Funny Ways to Say Hello: 45 Cool and Creative Options
      What Does "Hear Me Out" Mean? Plus, How to Use It
      What Does "Have a Great Weekend" Mean? Replying In Person & Over Text
      Are Evening and Night the Same Thing? Not Exactly.
      What Does SS Mean? Snapchat, Texting, and More
      What Does WYD Mean? Snapchat, Texting, and More
      What Does "BBL" Mean? Definition & Uses on Social Media and More
      How to
      Use a Dictionary
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/education-and-events/docs/designations/hccp/the-credential/2023-march/chess-or-checkers.pdf
      2. ↑ https://engageforsuccess.org/productivity/how-to-identify-and-improve-your-employees-strengths/
      3. ↑ https://ppqty.com/playing-checkers-not-chess/
      4. ↑ https://www.thechessdrum.net/blog/2020/01/30/kobe-bryants-chess-mind/
      5. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/click-here-happiness/202106/setting-long-term-goals-tips-and-tricks
      6. ↑ https://extension.harvard.edu/blog/how-to-create-an-action-plan-to-achieve-your-goals/
      7. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/habits/7-habits-proactive-not-reactive/
      8. ↑ https://stanfordmag.org/contents/nine-tips-for-smarter-decision-making

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,020 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement