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# Apply Constraints
- URL: https://www.cjchilvers.com/blog/apply-constraints/
- Published: 2019-11-15T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2019-11-15T15:00:00.000Z
- Author: CJ Chilvers
- Tags: Anxiety, health, creativity, minimalism

We know [creativity thrives with constraints](https://hbr.org/2013/01/how-intelligent-constraints-dr?ref=cjchilvers.com). But what does it have to do with [anxiety](https://www.cjchilvers.com/30-practical-tactics-to-decrease-your-anxiety-intro/)?

Have too much information and too many options when making decisions is great trigger for your anxiety. This is why minimalism is so popular — maybe more in thought than practice. This is why I prefer to apply constraints to alleviate specific problems, rather than applying entire philosophies to my entire life (which is in itself a lack of constraints).

What are some easy wins constraints can bring to your daily life?

- Pick a favorite breakfast, lunch, dinner, or meal plan and stick to it.
- Pick a favorite brand and size of t-shirt, buy a dozen in different colors and always have something to wear when you don’t want to think about it.
- Giveaway or sell a bunch of stuff you haven't used in a few years. Clutter is information too.
- Schedule activities for a regular time on a family calendar that are usually a struggle (dinner, baths, homework, etc.).

Reduce your options and you'll reduce the overthinking that comes with too many options.

*This is part of a 30-day challenge to blog about anxiety.* [*See all the posts*](https://www.cjchilvers.com/30-practical-tactics-to-decrease-your-anxiety-intro/)*.*