Incubation phase
The incubation phase is a stage of the creative or problem-solving process in which, after intense work, the problem is seemingly put aside and the mind continues to process the material in the background.
Definition
Incubation is not a magical waiting for an idea, but a break after being saturated with the topic. It can help when direct thinking is stuck in too rigid a pattern. It works best when you have done some real preparatory work beforehand and then come back to the problem of being ready to evaluate the ideas.
Key ideas
- Processing after preparation
- A break from stiff exercise
- Back with a new perspective
Practice and life
After 60-90 minutes of working on a difficult problem, take a break without intense stimuli. Come back later and write down new associations without immediate judgment.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to confuse incubation with procrastination. Incubation requires prior exposure to the problem and subsequent return to work.
> Solving problems is not only about constantly working on them, but also about leaving space in your head for the subconscious to act.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- Did I really prepare the material before the break?
- What form of rest will I choose without overloading my attention?
- What do I see differently when I return?