Freaking Shiny Object Syndrome, Am I Right? How I Deal
Start a blog to create passive income. Build your Brand on X. Short-form content and videos on TikTok is the way — THE ONLY WAY.
Just be authentic. Build your personal brand.
But ecom is the new and only move.
If you’ve spent any time on the internet, you’ll know: FOMO is everywhere and opportunities get noisy. Shiny object syndrome is rampant.
So this is how I deal with all these iridescent objects. This is how I stay focused.
Now let’s do this!
Table of Contents Show
What Is Shiny Object Syndrome?
Shiny object syndrome is when you find yourself getting easily distracted (or wooed) by new opportunities, rather than seeing your current one through.
It’s a silent destroyer to creativity, reaching goals and sustaining growth.
But is it real?
Definitely (speaking from experience). So let’s look at some red flags.
Shiny Object Syndrome Signs
Struggling to finish stuff or see things through
Frequently changing goals or objectives
Not having a strong or specific mission, vision or purpose
Going down too many rabbit holes of new opportunities
Comparing yourself to others (a lot)
Waiting for motivation to work on your projects
Shiny Object Syndrome (how I deal)
1. All the Boring, Basic Advice is Right
Let’s get the boring — but accurate — tips out of the way first.
These are the cliches that sound like broken records. But damnit, they’re good tips with lots of value.
Here are the best starting points to deal with shiny object syndrome:
Know your personal values
Clearly define your goals
Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps
Attach your goals to projects
Create a personal mission statement
2. Separate Exploration From Distraction
Trying new things is awesome — like an adventurer.
So the first thing I like to remember (or ask myself) is whether I’m exploring or just getting distracted.
Since testing new strategies and interests is important, getting clear on this question is key.
Here are some questions to ponder:
Does this new interest or thing relate to my current goals or projects?
How can this new thing boost my current stuff?
Am I only exploring a new thing because my current thing has just become difficult?
So wandering is good — if it’s exploration.
Otherwise, it’s probably just a distraction.
3. Have Realistic Timeframes
“Great things take great work and a great amount of time.”
Shiny objects become even shinier when we lose our drive for our current pursuit.
For me, this drop in motivation comes from unrealistic time horizons and expectations.
It’s a patience issue.
And the simplest solution I’ve found is to think in years, not months.
So here are some quick tips I’ve found helpful for setting more realistic timelines:
Reverse engineer big goals into smaller micro and nano goals
Study people ahead of you and how long it took them to succeed
Don’t quit your job before letting your side gig grow
Become process-oriented with a growth mindset
4. Use Systems
Systems work. They’re a personalized template for checking off your to-dos and reaching milestones.
They support habit formation and add strategic intention to your day.
A system is a set of processes and steps for working on and completing specific tasks in your life.
Creating one is personal and can take some testing, but here are some things I do:
Use different workflows for different projects
Shrink your focus
Match your work to your mood
For example, I do creative work in the mornings and evenings, when I usually feel most creative
Explore more:
➤ Here’s My Creative Workflow
5. Remove Your Top Distractions
For me, shiny objects pop up most when I’m doom scrolling while feeling particularly unmotivated or defeated with my current projects.
The internet and social media cause shiny object syndrome.
So here are some ways to remove distractions and improve your focus:
Choose just 1-2 platforms to focus on
Delete irrelevant apps if you can’t stay away
Schedule regular social media detoxes
Set up app limit timers on your top distracting apps
6. Stack Your Deck
Shiny objects never go away. But you do get better at blocking them out.
And stacking the deck in your favor is a solid way to combat them.
Stacking the deck means creating a context in your life that supports your goals and focus.
Here’s how I stack my deck:
My inner circle
Surround yourself with like-minded people who inspire you
My outer circle
Consume content that’s motivating, optimistic and educational
My environment
Make your spaces inspiring and energetic
Go to places that inspire you (like a vibey cafe)
Want More? Nice. Here’s More.
