Tiffany B. Brown

a mish-mosh of stuff

On stepping back to move forward

Or “Let your brain problem solve ‘in background.’”

The researchers found support for the idea that blinding insights favor a prepared mind–that is, you’ve got to really internalize the problem at hand if you’re to find any sort of solution. … But to actually bring those insights to life, you’ve got to step back.

From October 2009’s Hard Work’s Overrated, Maybe Detrimental by Cliff Kuang on FastCompany.com

I learned this lesson while working on a project that left me mentally drained every day. Often one I stepped away from the problem — usually all it took was the drive home — the solution would present itself like a neon-colored peacock.

[Via White African]

  • What was your solution? I am at the point that I am feeling drained every day. I already know that it will eventually come to an end in January.
  • My solution was to realize when I had reached the point of diminishing returns: where the level of productivity decreased with each hour. When I reach that point, I take a break and do something away from the keyboard.
  • Good point! On that note, I am going to step away from the keyboard and head to the gym. =D
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