The strategic thinking skills, clarity, and patience required to win a game of chess can also be applied to the world of finance and investing. Thinking one step ahead and creating a detailed financial plan bring you closer to your ultimate goals of building your wealth.Like a pawn on the chessboard, navigating through many challenges and obstacles to achieve financial success, an investor must have a master plan and effective strategy. You need to be able to advance across the board while protecting your king (you and your family) from your opponents at the same time.