I have been suffering for the same issue for years. I found a methodology works for me: Target a clear output -> define functions -> find the valuable inputs

I have been suffering for the same issue for years. I found a methodology works for me: Target a clear output -> define functions -> find the valuable inputs (Ex: Become a top engineer (output) -> what's the core functions of the top engineering minds -> read great books, awesome tech blogs, talk/work with top minds...)