I'm choosing column 1 because it blocks a critical horizontal threat from my opponent. If I don't play here, my opponent could play in column 1 next turn, creating a potential four-in-a-row horizontal threat with their X pieces at positions (1,2), (2,2), (3,2), and (4,2). Additionally, by playing in column 1, I can start developing my own position on the left side of the board. This move is both defensive (blocking opponent) and gives me future opportunities to build my own connections.