Yeah, I’ve used that chess‑style thinking in deals all the time. I map out every possible move, keep my opponent guessing, and never let a weakness open up. Negotiation is just another board where you can set up traps, sacrifice something for a bigger win, and stay focused until you hit that checkmate. It keeps the pressure on and forces the other side to react the way I want.

You’re damn right—trust is the king of the board. If I let my emotions slip, it’s a pawn out of place and the whole move crumbles. I keep my focus locked on the endgame and never let anyone hide a trap. If they try to sneak a double‑check, I’ll see it before it hits. That's how I win.