For Producing Ideas — A Technique

This is the most counterintuitive step. You must stop trying to solve the problem. Turn it over to your subconscious mind and find a distraction—listen to music, see a movie, or take a walk. Your subconscious works best when your conscious mind is busy with something else. 4. The "Aha!" Moment

If the first three steps are followed correctly, the "Birth of the Idea" occurs spontaneously. It rarely happens at your desk; it usually strikes while you are in the shower, shaving, or half-asleep. This is the moment the new combination finally clicks. 5. The Cold Grey Dawn A Technique for Producing Ideas

The richer your mental library, the more "old elements" you have to combine. 2. Digesting the Material This is the most counterintuitive step

A lifetime of curiosity—storing away knowledge about art, science, history, and people. Your subconscious works best when your conscious mind