I have spent more than a decade trying to solve a problem. I do day jobs and sometimes I take a few days off to work on the problem - in quiet contemplation. What I have noticed is that it has taken me more than ten years to 'see' a few important details pertinent to the whole.
I think that civilisation only moves on when society can afford a few people the time to think quite deeply about things, experiment with ideas and not have to worry too much about paying the bills. It is a pity that our education system does not inspire people to want to do this, spend as long as it takes working on something of e=mc2 splendour that will benefit the world. We cannot remember which of the ancient Greeks were rich but we do know their great thinkers. In the pecking order of 'fame', being a great thinker rules the roost.
Not really disagreeing with you but want to point out that Einstein had a very ordinary clerical job at the time when he figured out relativity. I even think the discussions with one of his colleagues played an important role.
I think that civilisation only moves on when society can afford a few people the time to think quite deeply about things, experiment with ideas and not have to worry too much about paying the bills. It is a pity that our education system does not inspire people to want to do this, spend as long as it takes working on something of e=mc2 splendour that will benefit the world. We cannot remember which of the ancient Greeks were rich but we do know their great thinkers. In the pecking order of 'fame', being a great thinker rules the roost.