Kid music lessons are somethings I did, but never really moved beyond the basics. I did take piano lessons for awhile, but I don't think it was for me, even though my parents encouraged all of us to learn music.
Environment does make a difference as to where one is. There are two instruments that I just love the sound of, the bagpipes, and the harp, but where I grew up those were not available, and my initial exposure to them were some what lacking.
My best thinking comes out of almost complete exhaustion. If we have something we, (my wife and I), need to discuss or a problem to solve, my wife just keeps me up and keeps us discussing until the light breaks through and we solve our issue.
I wonder if the "non-exposure" is why you like them so much?
This is interesting! I think mine does too - or at least my most creative thinking. Perhaps when tired it is like being drunk and we are liberated from our conditioning a little.
I was never one to "sleep on it" and then decide something. There are so many pro's and con's to important decisions that sometime you really need that forced creative thinking.
Music wise, I think it is a lack of early exposure, when you hear something completely different sounding, it perks ones ears up.
I like the pressure of having to think fast - though these days, it is a reminder of not being able to think as fast as I could.
The rest of my family can all play instruments - I was never really given the opportunity to learn. I wish I could sing - but I can hardly speak :)
I'm one of those that can carry a tune if it is in a bucket. Some/most snap decisions are for me anyways the right ones.