From the experience derived in many years of competitive Magic: the Gathering, I think I have a diferent map.
Superior opponent: Nervous—Very Focused
Approximately my skill opponent / Unknown opponent (no precise rating available): Confident - Very Focused
Inferior opponent: Confident—Not Focused
As can be inferred, I usually play my best game with opponents that are roughly my equal. Some of the difficoulties can be overcome by means of intense practice, i.e. making most of the decisions automatic, lessening the risk to punt them. It’s also interesting to note, that my anxiety for playing against strogner opponents lessens itself if I get to know them. Probably my brains moves them from the “superhuman/demigod” box to the “human just like you” box allowing a clearer view of the situation.
From the experience derived in many years of competitive Magic: the Gathering, I think I have a diferent map.
Superior opponent: Nervous—Very Focused
Approximately my skill opponent / Unknown opponent (no precise rating available): Confident - Very Focused
Inferior opponent: Confident—Not Focused
As can be inferred, I usually play my best game with opponents that are roughly my equal. Some of the difficoulties can be overcome by means of intense practice, i.e. making most of the decisions automatic, lessening the risk to punt them. It’s also interesting to note, that my anxiety for playing against strogner opponents lessens itself if I get to know them. Probably my brains moves them from the “superhuman/demigod” box to the “human just like you” box allowing a clearer view of the situation.