In music theory 101 you will learn about scales, keys, time signatures, and how to basically analyze music.

You will learn about notes move from one to other. You will also learn about how notes move together at the same time - sometimes in the same direction.

If your teacher is hip, like mine was, you will also touch on function. What is the function of this note and this harmony? Why does it exist? And where does it lead?

Now that you're an aspiring music theory wiz... here's how you can use your new found knowledge to solve your toughest problems.

Let's say you have a tough and generous problem to solve. It can be a business, leadership, or personal problem. Now to think yourself, "What is this problem? What is causing it to be in my life? What would make this problem resolved? What does a good resolution look like?"

After understanding the function of the problem (thank you John B.) you start to work to think about a solution.

• What if I did this?

• What if I did that?

• What if I combined this and that?

• What if I thought about something completely different?

• What if this is not a problem but an opportunity?

• What if I'm actually not the one to solve this?

If we're sticking with the music metaphor - this process is called permutation. We're inverting, retrograding, transposing, and retrograde inverting (that's a big one) the problem. Simply - we're playing with it.

While you're playing with the problem, give yourself time and space.

• Go on a walk.

• Visit the museum.

• Chill on the couch.

• People watch in the mall.

Do any activity that doesn't over stimulate your brain but allows you to continue half-process the problem. IF you're feeling lucky - take a nap.

The later that day, re-approach the problem.

If you are like me, you'll likely see the problem in a new way. You might even have some creative ideas for solving it!

John Steinbeck wrote, "A difficult problem at night is resolved in the morning after the committee of sleep has worked on it."

Give yourself time, space, and the freedom to play with your most difficult problems for more creative results.

And congratulations on passing Music Theory 101 ;-)