Thomas K4SWL has a good post about the importance of taking a break from radio. Following up on this, I noted that "taking a break" is often a good way of finding a solution to a difficult problem. I noted that I have confirmed this -- it has worked for me. Pete Juliano N6QW recently announced that he is taking a break from the MHST project. That is a good idea. A solution will likely emerge.
I noted that there is some evidence backing up our suspicion about the benefits of breaks. I earlier shared some comments from Harry Cliff's excellent book, "How to make an Apple Pie from Scratch."
https://soldersmoke.blogspot.com/2024/04/cloud-chamber-finale.html
Harry also wrote about the usefullness of taking breaks. In 1917 Ernest Rutherford was having trouble understanding the presence of some hydrogen nuclei. Harry writes:
"Again, he was forced to put his work on hiatus to go on a mission to the United States in the summer of 1917, but it turned out to be one of those useful breaks when stepping away from a problem lets your mind slowly work out the problem in the background. When Rutherford got back to the lab in September he had the answer..."
There are many other examples.
So, if you get stuck, take a break!
Posts
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteMay I suggest another Ham slogan. If you haven’t solved the problem by midnight, go to sleep!!
ReplyDeleteThere is a good German phase for this: "Selbst erledigen durch liegen lassen" Solve the matter by ignoring the matter for a while ;-)
ReplyDeleteAI recognizes the procedure:
ReplyDeleteSearch Labs | AI Overview
In electronic troubleshooting, taking a break means temporarily pausing troubleshooting efforts to recharge or address other tasks before resuming the problem-solving process. This can be helpful when frustration or fatigue sets in, or when a different perspective is needed to tackle the problem.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Systematic Approach:
Troubleshooting involves a step-by-step method to identify and fix problems.
When to Take a Break:
Frustration or Fatigue: When you feel overwhelmed, taking a break can help clear your head and approach the problem with a fresh perspective.
Burnout: Prolonged troubleshooting can lead to burnout. Taking breaks helps prevent this and maintain productivity.
Shifting Perspective: Sometimes, a break allows you to see the problem from a different angle, which can lead to a quicker solution.
Benefits of Taking a Break:
Reduced Errors: Taking a break can reduce the likelihood of making mistakes or jumping to incorrect conclusions.
Improved Problem-Solving: With a refreshed mind, you can approach the problem more effectively.
Increased Efficiency: Taking a break can actually increase your overall efficiency by preventing burnout and fatigue.
Types of Breaks:
Short Breaks: Stepping away for a few minutes to stretch, get a drink, or look at something else can be beneficial.
Longer Breaks: Taking a longer break, such as lunch or going home for the day, can be helpful when dealing with complex or frustrating problems.
By incorporating breaks into your troubleshooting process, you can improve your problem-solving skills, reduce errors, and maintain focus on complex tasks.