@RubySeaTurtle I had an experience that resolved this problem, so it's much easier for me to sit and preach from my perspective; but maybe if I tell you the story that happened to me, and you pretend that it happened to you, then you will be able to benefit in the same way that I have:
One day, I was up against someone 200 points my better. I was stuck at a position for several minutes as I couldn't sort out a plan. My radar told me that it was a critical position, but I couldn't understand why.
I had to deal with a phone call away from my computer for a minute, and when I returned, I saw a piece that could be easily captured. I traded my pawn for his bishop and went on to win the game.
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What happened?
Cognitive dissonance happened.
When you BELIEVE that someone is much better than you and wouldn't make a stupid mistake...you will be unable to find that mistake when it occurs.
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I know that you're sitting there saying, "Pffft, what a bunch of crappy advice. Of course I'll see an easy tactic that wins the game if it's there. FEARING my opponent's rating won't really matter one way or another."
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I am telling you. It very much matters.
Every move, make sure that you take time to assume that your opponent just made a game losing error.
Sit down with the ASSUMPTION that your opponent is having a terrible day and is playing below your level.
KNOW that you will find and exploit a weakness in his position, and simply make it your mission to make this happen. There will be no time to worry about rating difference if you do this.
When you blunder check for your own mistakes, repeat the process for your opponent.
You'll be amazed at what you start to find when you stop over respecting higher-rated players.
There is very little difference between 1800 and 1900, and 1900 and 2000.
It takes very little to crush a higher-rated player.
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FURTHER, I'll remind you that they have an "overlook" psychology at play as applies to you!
Just like you can't see their mistakes, they can't see what you have planned either!
ANY cunning plan...
Anything that's remotely wily...
Anything that is particularly out of the norm or somewhat complex...
...and it's a guaranteed win for you.
I'd MUCH rather play someone 200 points my better who's having a bad day and considers me a mark, than to play someone 100 points below me that's on his game and considers my every move to be a brilliant threat that needs to be defended against and counteracted.
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"Over-respecting" your opponent, aka "fearing your opponent", is a guaranteed loss.
Just tip your king and go do something else with your time if you find yourself in fear.
Between you self-mating, and your opponent trying to checkmate you, it's all but guaranteed a loss.
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If you want it summed up in 2 words...it's like that children's book says...
"Everybody Poops"
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Good luck and make sure that you keep us updated!