Too many choices reduce productivity. Reduce Choice to increase output.

“choice no longer liberates, but debilitates. It might even be said to tyrannize.” (Barry Schwartz, The Paradox of Choice)

Writer’s block takes many forms. Not having anything to write about plagues many writers. But having too many things to write about is my problem more often than not.

I see something in my review system that catches my attention and I decide to write about it. Then, upon further scrolling (just to ensure I complete my review), I see something else. At that point, I’m torn between topics.

My problem is that I haven’t set constraints for my writing.

Constraints also takes many forms. All can help a writer who is suffering from this form of writer’s block.

• Time constraint. Set a timer and just write. Publish whatever you have at the end of the period. Don’t be afraid of writing junk. With enough repetition, essays get better. The important part is showing up (publishing).
• Topic constraints. Resolve to stick to the first highlight that pops up in your review system. If you don’t have a review system, develop one. What took time for me was deciding what to write about. All the highlights in my review system resonated with me at one point. That’s why it’s there. But I can’t write about every highlight at that moment. So pick one.

Too many choices debilitates you. Reduce the amount of choices you have. You will produce more.

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