When I’m solving a difficult problem, one of my best strategies is to only glance at it. It helps me to think of all problems as puzzles to solve.
This works whether I’m working on a word or math puzzle, an arranging or composing puzzle, a recording puzzle, or really any kind of challenge.
When I stare straight at a tough puzzle, I rarely make any headway. It’s when it’s back of mind that things start to connect. I’ve solved puzzles when half awake after a nap, while taking a shower, while making dinner, while taking a walk. All it takes is to be totally familiar with the challenge, then think mostly about something else, while not having other engrossing distractions. (For example, I’ve rarely solved a puzzle while watching a movie I’ve never seen before. But I bet I could solve a puzzle with a rerun of The West Wing on in the background.)
Don’t look right at the problem. Only glance at it, now and then.