On #2, for example, if you are working on a todo list backend in python, try to find existing solutions for todo list backend in python. Then you can see what others using in their solutions and try to bring them into yours.
I understand, this approach is not applicable for everything but I have found lots of gems this way.
Only when you get stuck and cant figure something out with your current knowledge set, should you venture to look at others solutions.
Or after you have completed your solution and are curious about what others have done. You might find a library that makes your life way easier, but had you started out using that library, you wouldn't have the best understanding of the nitty gritty details.
I will admit sometimes I get a little ambitious with what I want to do and end up looking at other solutions to see just how complex we have to go.