I'm choosing column 1 for strategic positioning. By placing my piece here, I'm distributing my pieces across the board rather than stacking vertically (which could set up my opponent for a potential counter). This move doesn't create an immediate threat, but it gives me flexibility for future strategies. 

If I were to play in columns 3 or 4 (stacking on my existing pieces), it would create a vertical threat but my opponent would likely block and gain a similar threat themselves. By playing in column 1, I'm working toward potential diagonal or horizontal connections while maintaining board control. This move doesn't give my opponent any obvious advantages and keeps my options open for future turns.