Nimzovitch's Seven Axioms (from My System)

1. Development is to be understood as the strategic advance of the troops toward the frontier line (the line between the fourth and fifth ranks).
2. A pawn move must not in itself be regarded as a developing move, but merely as an aid to development.
3. To be ahead in development is the ideal to be aimed for.
4. Exchange with resulting gain of tempo.
5. Liquidation, with consequent development or disembarrassment.
6. The pawn centre must be mobile.
7. There is no time for pawn hunting in the opening, except for centre pawns.

-- NIMZOVITCH