Usually, we make slow and steady progress that accumulates over time. Ex: working out to become fit and trim. Creating new manners. Etc. Lately I've had two contrasting experiences that made me think about things differently. I'm curious what other people's experiences are of patterns like these.

1) a situation that has been slow progress, that you suddenly get a break through in with no warning.

2) a sudden and unexpected break through or revelation in an area that you didn't realize had room for better understanding or improvement.