Have you ever found yourself excitedly diving into a new project, only to abandon it weeks later for the next shiny idea that catches your eye?
Or maybe you’ve postponed launching your business, telling yourself you first need to take that cutting-edge course, read the hottest new book, or master the latest strategy — always chasing “the next big thing.”
You’re not alone.
This phenomenon is known as Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS). It can be a sneaky thief of our time and focus, leading us down a rabbit hole of distractions.
Whether it’s the latest marketing trend, a new business opportunity, or even a fresh hobby, the allure of the new can be intoxicating.
That used to happen to me! And if I’m honest, it still does sometimes. However, my journey with SOS has taught me invaluable lessons about myself and my priorities.
I want to share these lessons with you. By learning to recognize when Shiny Object Syndrome is taking over, you can:
- Prevent wasting your time
- Regain control over your focus and productivity
- Gain confidence in your chosen path
Now, let’s see how SOS might be affecting you personally.
Quick Quiz: Am I susceptible to Shiny Object Syndrome?
- Do you frequently start new projects without finishing existing ones?
- Yes, I’m always jumping from one thing to the next
- Sometimes, but I try to focus
- No, I’m pretty good at seeing projects through to completion
- When you discover a new tool, tactic or platform, do you immediately want to implement it in your business?
- Yes, absolutely, I can’t wait to try the latest and greatest
- It depends, sometimes I wait to see if it’s a good fit
- No, I stick to what’s already working for me
- Do you have trouble saying “no” to new opportunities or ideas?
- Yes, I always want to take on more
- Sometimes, if it aligns with my goals
- No, I’m selective about what I commit to
- Do you frequently switch between different strategies, coaches or courses without giving them a real chance?
- Yes, I’m always searching for the next best thing
- Sometimes, if I’m not seeing results
- No, I’m committed to my current plan
- Do you feel like your tools and strategies are scattered or not working together cohesively?
- Yes, I have many separate pieces that don’t connect
- Somewhat, I’m still working on integrating everything
- No, my systems and strategies work well in harmony
Results
If you answered “Yes”, or a combination of “Yes” and “Somewhat” to 3 or more of these questions:
You’re highly susceptible to SOS. Your enthusiasm for new ideas is admirable, but it may be hindering your progress on current projects. You might find yourself constantly starting new ventures without seeing them through to completion. This can lead to scattered efforts and a lack of tangible results. Focus on developing strategies to stick with your commitments and resist the urge to chase every new opportunity that comes your way.
If you answered “Somewhat” to 3 or more of these questions:
You’re experiencing some symptoms of SOS. While you’re not fully succumbing to every distraction, you may still find it challenging to maintain focus on your primary goals. You’re likely aware of your tendency to get pulled in multiple directions but haven’t fully developed the tools to combat this. Work on strengthening your ability to prioritize and commit to your most important projects.
If you answered “No” to most questions:
Congratulations! You seem to have a good handle on managing distractions and staying focused on your goals. However, remain vigilant, as SOS can creep up unexpectedly. Continue to cultivate your ability to discern between valuable opportunities and unnecessary distractions.
With your SOS susceptibility in mind, let’s explore some valuable insights I’ve gained from my own experiences.
Here are three major insights I gained from my experiences:
Lesson 1: Action Beats Overthinking
When I first decided to create a website, I fell into the trap of endless preparation.
I spent hours watching YouTube videos and searching for the “perfect” course, convinced that more knowledge would make the end product better.
Instead, I found myself buying new courses that merely rehashed information I already knew. I hesitated to take concrete steps, like investing in hosting and a domain name.
Looking back, I realize I wasted valuable time overthinking rather than simply diving in and getting started.
Valuable Insight:
Action often trumps preparation. Don’t let excessive planning paralyze your progress—take that first step towards your goals.
Lesson 2: Feedback is More Valuable Than Perfection
When I launched my first digital product, I became obsessed with the smallest details. I fixated on colors, fonts, images, and sounding professional.
In hindsight, I should have prioritized sharing it with my audience for feedback rather than fixating on design. After all, they cared more about the actionable content than the pretty “package”.
Their insights would have helped me improve significantly faster.
Valuable Insight:
Sharing your work and learning from others is more valuable than waiting for perfection. Feedback is your compass—it guides you toward meaningful improvement.
Lesson 3: Don’t Let Fear of Imperfection Stop You
Years ago, I stumbled upon a job that seemed tailor-made for me—offering excellent pay and benefits.
It was at a company I’d long admired and followed, not just for their work, but because I’d been eagerly waiting for an opening in my desired position.
So, as you’d expect, I spent two days meticulously crafting my CV and cover letter, adding links to showcase my work.
But then just before hitting the “apply” button, I hesitated. Caught in a cycle of overthinking every word, I delayed submitting my application.
Two days later, when I finally felt ready to apply, the position had closed. I can’t overstate how deeply I regretted not acting sooner.
Valuable Insight:
Fear of making mistakes will cost you opportunities. Don’t let perfectionism stop you from taking risks.
Lesson 4: Consistency is Key
As a digital marketer and consultant, I’ve helped numerous businesses overcome their challenges.
However, in my own entrepreneurial journey, I’ve struggled with consistency. I’d start a new project with enthusiasm, only to abandon it weeks later when the next shiny idea caught my eye.
This pattern of inconsistency held me back from achieving my goals.
Through my work with clients, I realized that the most successful businesses were those that remained consistent in their efforts.
They didn’t chase every new trend or get distracted by the latest marketing tactic. Instead, they focused on creating high-quality content, building relationships with their audience, and continuously improving their products and services.
Valuable Insight:
Consistency is the foundation of success. By committing to a long-term strategy and sticking to it, you can achieve your goals and build a thriving business or career.
Now that we’ve explored these key lessons, let’s put them into practice with a comprehensive approach to combating SOS.
Systemic Solution: Overcoming Shiny Object Syndrome
To combat SOS in your daily life, try this simple system:
- Set Clear Goals: Write down your top three priorities for the week. Focus on what truly matters.
Example: Instead of listing “grow my business” as a vague goal, be specific: “Increase email subscribers by 100 this week by creating and promoting a free downloadable guide.” - Limit Information Intake: Choose one or two reliable sources (at most) for learning instead of jumping from video to video or course to course. This should help define a clear roadmap that allows you to progress, and then stick to it.
Example: If you’re learning about email marketing, commit to following one expert’s blog or podcast for a month before seeking other sources. This could be Hubspot Academy, which offers multiple courses about Marketing and Sales. - Establish Deadlines: Give yourself a specific timeframe for tasks. For example, set a deadline for launching a project or sending an application.
Example: “I will launch my new e-commerce store by June 1st, even if it’s not perfect. I’ll improve it based on customer feedback after launch.” - Seek Feedback Early: Share your work with trusted friends, mentors, or even new prospects before aiming for perfection. Their feedback can help you improve quickly.
Example: If you’re writing an e-book, share the first chapter with a small group of your target audience after just one round of edits. Use their feedback to guide your revisions and subsequent chapters. - Reflect Regularly: Take time each week to reflect on what you accomplished and what distracted you. Adjust your approach as needed.
Example: Every Friday afternoon, spend 15 minutes reviewing your week. List your accomplishments, note any distractions, and plan how to mitigate those distractions next week. For instance, if social media was a major distraction, you might decide to use website blockers or put your phone in silent mode during your core work hours.
By implementing this system, you can overcome pesky syndrome and stay focused on what truly matters in your personal and professional life!
Next time you’re torn about implementing the hottest strategy you just heard of, or buying the one-of-a-kind brand new course released by a guru, look at the 5 points in your systemic solution.
Does this new shiny object align with your goals?
- Example: If your goal is to increase your blog traffic, does this new Instagram marketing course really serve that purpose, or is it just exciting because it’s new?
Will it truly provide features or information you’ve never heard of?
- Example: Before buying that new productivity app, research its features. Are they truly innovative, or just repackaged versions of tools you already have?
Will it set you back or prevent you from meeting your deadlines?
- Example: If implementing a new email marketing strategy will delay your product launch by a month, is it worth it?
Will it allow you to get real-world feedback?
- Example: Instead of buying another course on public speaking, could you join a local Toastmasters club to get immediate, practical feedback?
If any of these questions made you second guess, then you probably need to put a pin in this new shiny object you’ve found.
Remember, focus and consistency are often more valuable than constantly chasing the next big thing.
To illustrate how these strategies work in real life, allow me to share a recent experience of my own.
A Personal Victory Over Shiny Object Syndrome (And Why I Stay Vigilant)
Let me share a recent experience that illustrates how I’ve put these lessons into practice.
Last year, I decided to create a sales funnel strategy course for entrepreneurs. As I began outlining the content, I stumbled upon a course that promised to teach the “perfect” method for creating high-converting courses. The marketing was slick, and it seemed like it could revolutionize my approach.
My old SOS tendencies kicked in. I felt that familiar rush of excitement and was tempted to put everything on hold to enroll in this course. But then I paused and recognized the telltale signs of Shiny Object Syndrome creeping in.
Instead of immediately jumping on this new opportunity, I went back to my system solution and asked those crucial questions:
- Did this align with my goals?
- Would it provide truly new information?
- Would it set back my deadline?
- Would it allow for real-world feedback?
Despite my initial excitement, the answers weren’t convincing. However, I still decided to enroll, thinking it might offer some valuable insights.
Unfortunately, it turned out to be a waste of time. The course was more focused on promoting affiliate products than providing a real system or strategies. The ideas were rehashed and unoriginal, offering little value beyond what I already knew.
This experience reinforced the importance of trusting my initial assessment. By going back to my original plan and focusing on creating valuable content based on my own experience and research, I was able to launch my course on schedule. The feedback I received was invaluable, and the course has since become one of my most successful offerings.
Now, I’m not immune to Shiny Object Syndrome. I still find myself occasionally tempted by new tools, strategies, or opportunities. The difference is that I’m now much more aware of these tendencies.
Whenever I feel that familiar pull towards something new and shiny, I go back to my system solution and work through those questions.
Remember, overcoming Shiny Object Syndrome isn’t about becoming immune to new ideas – it’s about developing the discernment to recognize which opportunities truly align with your goals and which are just distractions. Stay aware, stay focused, and keep moving forward!
Wrap up
Shiny Object Syndrome doesn’t have to be your nemesis.
By recognizing its symptoms and implementing the strategies we’ve discussed, you can transform this tendency into a powerful tool for self-awareness and growth.
Remember, it’s not about completely eliminating your curiosity or enthusiasm for new ideas – it’s about channeling that energy productively.
As you move forward, embrace the lessons of action, feedback, and consistency. Don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing your goals. Instead, use your newfound focus to dive deep, create meaningful work, and achieve the success you’ve been chasing all along.
You’ve got this! Now go out there and make your ideas shine – one focused step at a time.
What was your biggest SOS moment, and how did it impact your progress?
Drop a comment below and tell us your story!
Your experiences could be just the inspiration someone else needs to overcome their own Shiny Object Syndrome. Let’s learn from each other and build a community of focused, goal-crushing entrepreneurs!
P.S. If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more insights on productivity, focus, and entrepreneurial success. Together, we’ll turn those shiny objects into stepping stones towards our goals
