Can only gifted people achieve a 2000 Elo rating?
In my opinion, you can achieve anything in life if you put in the time and effort every day. This principle applies not only to chess but to life in general. The problem is that most people are unwilling to put in the necessary effort. Even when they do make an effort, they often do so inconsistently or for only a short period. Great achievements don’t come in weeks or months; they take years or even decades. I believe talent means very little, if anything at all. Even if someone is naturally talented, that doesn’t automatically make them the best in their field. Hard work is essential to reaching that level of excellence. For example, Magnus Carlsen is indeed talented, but it’s important to recognize that he put in the work to reach his current status. As a child, he would sit down with his coach daily to practice and analyze for hours, even on days when he didn't feel like it—which is a common struggle for children. In conclusion, talent doesn't matter; what truly matters is putting in consistent work every day over many years. An obsession with your goal is what keeps people motivated and moving forwa rd.