a strange (learning) loop.

Not exactly Escher...but this is how I'm learning to understand Mathematics in all its glory:

1. Find a problem which needs solving.
2. Solve the problem Mechanically.
3. Jump out of the system and ask 'why?'.
4. Light a cigarette && Understand ('Aha!') and re-solve the problem Intelligently.
5. Visualize the pattern between this problem and others.
6. Get more coffee && goto: 1.

You think I've got this all backwards? Well hell, take a look at the title of this blog.