Agree with Michael's points. My strategy: Buy problem books instead of text books!
- I KNOW I won't be able to finish them. That means it's OK not to, so I don't feel bad - but also that I shouldn't buy too many.
- The material within is bite-sized. Early problems teach you what you need for later ones, and you can always stop and come back later.
- Constant feedback is rewarding. Also, some say you only understand what you create for yourself.
- If I'm not advancing at all in a problem book, then I find open books on the internet, or (better!) I buy the Dover Publications paperback of the book by a master/inventor of the field, usually for $7 or so.
- I KNOW I won't be able to finish them. That means it's OK not to, so I don't feel bad - but also that I shouldn't buy too many.
- The material within is bite-sized. Early problems teach you what you need for later ones, and you can always stop and come back later.
- Constant feedback is rewarding. Also, some say you only understand what you create for yourself.
- If I'm not advancing at all in a problem book, then I find open books on the internet, or (better!) I buy the Dover Publications paperback of the book by a master/inventor of the field, usually for $7 or so.