We recently spent some time trying to find a funny looking man in a red and white striped shirt hidden in the pages of her book. We found him tackling pirates on the high seas, panning for gold during the Gold Rush, and rocketing through outer space.

We were particularly stumped with one of the puzzles and I suggested a small break so we could come back and search with fresh eyes. Of course, my daughter protested – her stubborn side showing her determination to “beat” the puzzle. After some convincing, she decided to take a break. Sure enough, we promptly found the answer upon our return.

Thinking back to that moment, I realize that hidden picture books are a lot like life. The answers we long to see are usually right in front of us but are sometimes obscured by our surroundings. It's not until we step back, take a break, and approach with fresh eyes that the solutions pop into focus.

Next time you long to find a solution to a problem, draw some inspiration straight out of a children's book. With some time and patience, the resolution will slowly emerge. Everything you need to succeed is right in front of you – you just need to find it.