In what she calls her ‘Green Eggs and Ham hypothesis,’ the psychologist Catrinel Haught-Tromp argues that constraints can increase creativity, as Dr Seuss found when invited by his publisher to write a book containing just fifty different words: ‘Focusing the creative energy on a narrower field of exploration allows for a more in-depth processing o

... See more

Use constraints as catalysts. Constraints can be annoying, or they can be fuel for experimentation. Limited time, limited budget, limited energy? Ask: Given my current constraints, what’s one tiny experiment I can try anyway? For example: I will make lunch for under $5 everyday for 5 weekdays, or I will publish my ideas on a topic in 300 words max ... See more

Dr. Seuss bet his publisher he could write a book with just 50 unique words. The result? "Green Eggs and Ham" — a timeless masterpiece that's sold millions of copies. The lesson? Constraints aren't creativity killers. They're rocket f... See more