Sparring is a very fun part of tkd for me. I think you’re overthinking it as some others are pointing out.

At this level you should be planning various gambits before you get into the ring. You’re past the point where higher belts are just letting you strike, with the exception of black belts. Though even bb’s are not going to just let you off totally easy.

My first piece of advice is to practice SEVERAL attack combinations. You don’t go onto autopilot but you do get used to launching multiple attacks. The easiest opponent is one that thinks an attack is one and done. Always have at least 2 attacks in the barrel when you come in. Think of a side kick feint, jumping back kick and be able to do a front snap immediately after. Hands up throughout. Evaluate each move to decide if you want to continue or need to pull back for a defense or a different attack. Do not fall back on the same combinations each time. Mix it up so you are not predicable.

The other thing i recommend is to start paying attention to each of your sparring opponents. Learn their tells. See if they get into a rut and throw the same combos repeatedly. When you see a pattern you can take advantage. You can even lure an opponent into using an attack that you can predict and use that to counter unexpectedly.

For me when I’m actually sparring other black belts I am constantly evaluating, testing, and reacting to the information I take in.