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It’s not the problem that is difficult. Often, we just do not spend enough time struggling with it to understand it deeply, to form a connection with it…

It was the summer of 1996 when I found myself completely stuck on a differentiation maths problem. The memory is still so fresh, as if it happened just yesterday.

I had spent the entire day working on that one theorem, filling two notebooks, almost 100 pages each, with attempts that led nowhere. Exhausted and anxious, I finally decided to approach my guru, Mr V. I was full of apprehension. I did not know if I was going to let him down by not being able to solve the question even after so much effort.

But then I reminded myself that a true maths enthusiast should never be afraid of making mistakes and should definitely not shy away from asking for help when stuck.

With determination, I approached him. Mr V looked at me with a calm, gentle smile and asked a simple question, “How long have you been working on this theorem?”

“All day,” I replied. “I have filled two notebooks.”

His smile grew wider. “Deepti” he said, “I want you to go home, get some sleep and not attempt this question today. Try it again tomorrow morning with a fresh mind. If you still cannot solve it, I will help you.”

What could I say to my guru? I come from a time when a teacher was treated like God and you do not say no to God. So I followed his advice, even though I could hardly wait for morning.

The next day, with a thumping heart, I picked up my third notebook and started again. My eyes were fixed on the question and my hands moved almost automatically as if my whole body was in a trance. My mind felt clear and focused, processing each step with surprising ease.

And then it happened. I solved it. Yes, I actually solved it. It was almost a 10 page long theorem.

I had no idea how everything suddenly fell into place, but it did. The same problem that had felt like a huge, intimidating monster the night before now seemed so simple, as if it had never been that difficult at all.

That moment taught me something I have never forgotten. Sometimes the solution is not about pushing harder, but about stepping back and allowing your mind to reset.

Clarity often comes after rest, not constant struggle.

That lesson continues to guide me even today, in every aspect of my life. As your mentor, guide and educator, I want every student who feels stuck to remember this. It is okay to pause. It is okay to step away.

Give your mind the space it needs, then begin again with a fresh perspective. You might be surprised at how simple things start to feel.