In our last several +1s (here, here, and here), we’ve been chatting about Emerson and his chess journey and how we have worked hard to preserve his intrinsic motivation by encouraging him to trust himself as he forges excellence by following his bliss.
For the record…
Once upon a time early on in Emerson’s chess journey (shortly after he got clear on the fact that he wanted to get REALLY good!) I made the mistake of trying to get him to create TOO much externally-imposed structure with his chess training.
His enthusiasm started to wane and it became VERY clear that we needed to lighten up and let him create his own unique path to mastery.
Note: The documentary on Magnus Carlson and HIS awesome dad and idiosyncratic path to historical greatness was an inspiration at this juncture. It’s called “Magnus.” It’s a GREAT film. I think you’ll love it.
Now…
That experience was a REALLY powerful distinction for me and a GREAT example of how important it is to have just the right amount of structure lest the joy get squeezed out by the grip of rigidity.
Note: See this +1 on flexibility for more on the dynamic balance of structure and spontaneity!
So…
Today I want to formally introduce you to Emerson’s coach.
His name is Nick Matta. He’s amazing.
I’m going to share a testimonial I wrote for him for a couple reasons.
First, I think it’s REALLY important that we take the time to support the people who support us and the people we love. I am going to use this as a little opportunity to demonstrate a way I tried to do that and encourage you to find your own way to do it as well. 🙏
Second, if you have a kid who is serious about chess, I think you’ll love Nick. 🙌
So…
Let’s get to work.
Little more context.
Nick is moving from Louisiana to the east coast with his fiancé who just got into a premiere med school program.
On May 20th at 1:08pm CT, Nick sent me a text asking if I’d be up to writing him a coaching testimonial to help him get a new gig with a chess academy in NYC.
I happened to be online and I IMMEDIATELY replied to his text saying “Yes ✅ “ “And exciting.”
Then…
Channeling my commitment to one-touch things that take less than two minutes while putting some speed is a force wisdom to action, TWO MINUTES LATER (I was actually surprised I wrote the blurb THAT fast!!), I sent him THIS note…
Nick Matta is an extraordinary coach. I’ve trained over 10,000 Heroic Coaches from over 100 countries around the world and I wish they all showed up with the same level of passion, professionalism, and love that Nick brings to every single one of his sessions with our 11-year-old son, Emerson.
Chess wise, Nick has coached Emerson through winning the JV division for the Texas State Chess Championship months after they started working together and more recently helped him tie for 7th in the National Elementary Chess Championship after a full year of working together while hitting a 2000+ rating on chess.com.
Nick has an uncanny ability to know how to connect with and encourage Emerson while giving him exactly the lessons and practices he needs to go to the next level.
But what I am most grateful for is the love and admiration he shows for and the encouragement he gives to our son. We consider Nick a part of our family and will be forever grateful for the role he has played in helping Emerson flourish!
We HIGHLY encourage any parents looking for the perfect coach to help bring out the best in their kids (on AND off the chess board!) to consider working with Nick. I literally can’t imagine what our lives would be like if we hadn’t.
I got tears in my eyes writing that and rereading that now.
And…
That’s Today’s +1.
Think of ONE person who has helped ONE person you love.
Got them in mind?
Awesome.
Now…
If you feel so inspired, write them a little note of appreciation.
Thank them for how important of a role they have played in helping you and your family flourish.
It does a Hero good.
Let’s spread some.
TODAY.
P.S. If you want to get in touch with Nick, just let us know—we’ll connect you.
P.P.S. Here’s our actual text thread with a time stamp showing how fast I replied. I’m still surprised I did it in 2 minutes. Go me. 😆
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