I start following links online to learn about the subject instead of focusing so hard on it; just learning stuff by osmosis and interest instead of directed intent. Ask yourself interesting questions about the material you wish you knew the answer to and then go find out. Invent nonsense or equation questions (How does a tree talk to the ocean? In what way is wood like stone?) and make up a plausible answer (plants talk to each other Scientists Confirm that Plants Talk and Listen To Each Other, Communication Crucial for Survival : Science/Tech : Medical Daily and the one closest to the ocean. . . :-)