Some of my competitors overlook the importance of knowing as much as possible about their opponents, but I think that it is an invaluable asset that I have gained from working.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I've got to know my strength and weaknesses and the same for my competitors.
It's important to be successful, and not just because there is competition, but also because it leads to better work for you.
The truth is that throughout my careers in both chess and the martial arts, I often knew that my rivals were more naturally gifted than me - either with their mental machines or their bodies. But I have believed in my training, my approach to learning, and my ability to rise to the challenge under pressure.
I am someone that is very competitive. When I'm on the field, I compete. When I'm practicing, when I'm in meetings. I'm a competitor in everything.
If you have a strong opponent, a competition is stimulating. I am generally most open to ideas when I have had a bad result. In chess, too, players specialise. This specialty then becomes an entry barrier.
I'm a dominant competitor.
I always say my biggest competitor is myself because, whenever I step out there on the mat, I'm competing against myself to prove that I can do this and that I am very well trained, prepared for it.
I love to compete. That's the essence of who I am.
I mean, as an athlete, as a competitor, you have to have that belief in yourself.
I'm at the point in my career where to be a winner is more important than any individual things.