How to Use the MacGyver Method:

Ever had one of those "aha!" moments while doing something completely mundane?

You know, those flashes of insight that hit you out of nowhere when you're brushing your teeth, walking the dog, or just zoning out on the couch.

They normally happen after you've been trying to figure something out but getting nowhere.

Did you know there's a scientific explanation for it?

When you move a problem from your conscious brain to your subconscious, it's like going from using a calculator to a supercomputer.

The conscious brain has a limited processing power to deal with problems.

Whereas the subconscious brain is potentially close to unlimited in the processing power it has. It's not restricted by logical thinking. Able to make links between unassociated topics. Be more creative in the solutions.

There's a method to take advantage of this to help you solve problems.

It's called the Macgyver method. It's based off of the way the creator of the Macgyver TV show would approach creative blocks.

Here's how to do it:

1. Write the problem down

Write the problem down with as much detail as you can.

Get clear on what the problem is. If it helps, turn the problem in to a question that needs answering.

But there's one rule when you write it down.

It has to be written by hand on paper.

Apparently this helps your subconscious grasp hold of the problem and process it better.

I've not tried doing this with typing it on a phone or computer so it's worth trying if you think this might help.

2. Take your mind off the problem 

Go do something else.

Take your mind off the problem so it can move to your subconscious mind. Try to do something that's less cognitive intense. You could even do step 1 before you sleep and then go to sleep and then wake up and do step 3.

3. Say (write) what's on your mind

Come back to your note book and just keep writing what comes into your mind and you'll find ideas start to come through to you as you keep going. Eventually you'll find a solution come to you.

The MacGyver method isn't just another productivity hack.

It's a way to maximise the potential of your mind. To work smarter, not harder. It's like baking a cake. You mix the ingredients (the problem) and put it in the oven (your subconscious) so that it can turn that mess into a delicious cake (All this cake talk is making me hungry).

I've tried the Macgyver method a couple of times recently and it's been useful. It's definitely a tool to add to your problem solving tool belt.

So the next time you're feeling stuck, try it out and see what ideas you come up with.

Thank you for being a part of the Marginal Gains community.

Every Sunday I share small simple tips to help you become your best self.

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Until next week,

Stay Thriving,

Shoaib.