Shiny Object Syndrome: The Productivity Thief We All Battle (And How to Win)
Look, you know how it feels...like an itch under your skin. You're working on a project, making good progress, and then BAM! Someone swears by a new tool, or that side hustle concept your friend is gushing about suddenly appears to be far superior to what you're doing. The next thing you know, your perfectly set plans are accumulating dust as you spin your wheels with whatever dazzling object piques your interest.
We have all been there. It's called shiny object syndrome (SOS), and it's more than just an annoyance; it's a stealthy saboteur of goals, desires, and, let's be honest, our mental health also. The allure of the new, the promise of the next big thing—it's powerful stuff! But, the reality is, SOS isn't about the item; it's about what we want that new thing to fix.
Why Do Those Shiny Objects Have Us Hooked?
Let's be honest with ourselves, why do we fall for those shiny distractions way too easily and way too many times? Let’s explore four main reasons why we do this.
1. The Comparison Trap
Social media, with its perfectly filtered highlight reels, makes it way too easy to feel like we're missing out, like our current path isn't exciting enough compared to someone else's supposed success.
2. Our Brains Kinda Like It
Our brains are wired for novelty. That dopamine rush, when we discover something is real, that feels good. The problem is, that rush eventually fades, and we're left on the hunt for the next one.
3. We Crave Easy Wins
Shiny objects often come with promises of shortcuts and quick fixes. Who wouldn't be tempted by a solution that feels simpler and faster than doing the hard work of sticking with something?
4. FOMO is a Beast (Fear of Missing Out)
That sinking feeling that if we don't try this new diet/app/business model, we'll be left behind gnaws at us. We worry we'll miss the opportunity.
The thing is, those feelings are normal! The trick is not letting them derail you.
Shiny Object Syndrome Fallout is More Than Just a Distraction
Here's what nobody tells you about shiny object syndrome: it's not just about wasted time. Chasing every bright light wreaks havoc on more than your to-do list and here are four areas that get negatively impacted.
1. The Progress Killer
Most entrepreneurs never stay with something long enough to see the results they were anticipating. There's always something "better" on the horizon. What good is a hundred amazing starts if you never finish anything?
2. The Confidence Crusher
After a while, your pile of half-started projects starts to feel like a monument to your own failures. It chips away at your self-belief, making it harder to start anything new because you tell yourself you'll just bail anyway.
3. Decision Fatigue = Willpower Depletion
Each time you chase a shiny object, you're making a choice. Decision-making is mentally draining. The more scattered you are, the harder it is to make good choices on the things that actually matters.
4. Missed Connections
We all have limited time and energy. Flitting from interest to interest can mean neglecting the real relationships and experiences that bring lasting fulfillment to us.
How do You Fight Shiny Temptations, without Going Full-On Hermit?
Okay, time for some tough love. Overcoming SOS isn't about banishing anything new or exciting from your life. That's impossible and honestly, not much fun.
It's about becoming the boss of your own attention and channeling that energy in the right direction. Let’s explore six anti-shiny object action plan items to help you consistently make progress on your goals, so you can have your ideal business and ideal life.
1. The "Hell Yeah!" Test
Before jumping on something new, ask yourself, "Does this get me to say, “HELL YEAH”, or just a 'Meh, it could be cool.'" If it's not an enthusiastic YES, step back.
2. Understand Your Triggers
What makes you vulnerable to distractions? Boredom? Feeling overwhelmed? Once you know your triggers, you can plan defenses (like a list of go-to focus activities to replace shiny object browsing).
3. Embrace the Power of “No”
We're conditioned to think 'Yes' is always best ('Yes to new opportunities!'). But 'No' is a powerful tool for protecting your focus and very valuable time.
“The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.” – Warren Buffett
4. "Done-ish" Over Perfection
Sometimes, progress means accepting that something doesn't need to be flawless to be valuable. Focus on getting it out into the world instead of agonizing over every detail.
5. Your Values Are Your Compass
Write down what truly matters in life. Every time a shiny object winks at you, compare it to this list. Does it actually move you closer to your values and goals? If not, don’t let it distract you.
Download and complete my Values Clarification exercise to help you align your goals and behavior with your values, so that everything is heading in the same direction. When goals and behavior are aligned with core values, you have the winning formula for success.
Download my complimentary Values Clarification Exercise to help get you started on defining and getting clarity on your core values, by going to https://www.accountabilitycoach.com/values-clarification/.
6. Find Your Accountability Crew
Tell supportive people about your efforts. They can help you spot potential SOS traps or celebrate your victories over those distracting urges.
Progress is a step-by-step process.
According to a study, the average person switches tasks every 3 minutes and 5 seconds. This constant distraction makes it incredibly difficult to stay focused on our goals. The battle against Shiny Object Syndrome isn't about perfection, it is about constant progress to make improvements that will get you to ultimately where you want to be in business and in life.
Progress rarely moves in a straight line. Some days, you'll crush it; others, you'll stumble. But every small win over a distraction, every time you choose your long-term goals over a fleeting temptation, that's where the true growth happens. Be patient with yourself, and keep striving to master your focus, so you can enjoy having your ideal business and ideal life.
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I’m the author of many books, including, Excuses Don’t Count; Results Rule, Live Life with No Regrets, No Excuses, The Guide to Stopping Procrastination, The Power of Visualization, My Gratitude Journal, the Work Life Balance Emergency Kit, and The Roadmap To Success with Stephen Covey and Ken Blanchard, and more.
Aim for what you want each and every day!
Anne Bachrach
The Accountability Coach™
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