Learn How to Overcome Shiny Object Syndrome

Learn How to Overcome Shiny Object Syndrome


By Clive Hooper

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Hi Everyone,

It's a fad that is on the increase. Every day there are new products being launched in the Internet Marketing space and newbie internet marketers are falling foul of this new trend. The trend I am talking about is "SOS - Shiny Object Syndrome" it has the ability to seize one's fancy and interest in such a way that we get side-tracked and go off in different directions instead of concentrating on the main objective.

The end result of shiny object syndrome is that a lot of things get started, but nothing ever gets completed. Also numerous hours and dollars are lost in the search of the next shiny object without having due thought as to whether the process, service or product is a good fit for the business.

As business owners we need to be able, to rapidly filter through the sea of ideas and only select those that are right to work on.

Here are some steps I use to control this "disorder" and stay on track

Document all your ideas

Note down every idea that you see throughout the day. When something new catches you attention put it in your log and then as soon as possible return to whatever you were doing before.

The problem with these ideas is that we think they suddenly are top priority and because of that they need to be implemented straight away and therefore need your full attention. Writing them down means you can stop worrying about them and review them later on in the day.

There are two methods to try and help reduce the distraction, one is to set aside sometime in the day to brainstorm new ideas. The second is to have a weekly plan of activities, this way you can focus on your current tasks without being distracted.

Take a "Time Out" Before Starting Anything

This is one of those things that I have to keep remembering over and over again. When an idea pops into your head, pause. Don't do it straight away. It doesn't matter whether the idea is just doing some tweets or redoing your keywords - both ideas can wait.

Setting some time aside to consider your concept and if you should implement it. If after your designated time you still think the idea is good and will help your business, then make plans to execute it. Otherwise leave it on the log and don't fret about it.

Decide on an effective time period, when considering concepts to implement.

Long Term Strategy

Now that you have a log of ideas, it is time to weigh up whether they are genuinely worth consideration. In order to do this, you have to look at them in the context of your long term strategy and ask the question "Does this idea align with my business goals?" if the answer is yes, then proceed. If not, then put it back in to the bucket and revisit it later on.

Some of your ideas may need other things to be accomplished before they themselves can be implemented. For the time being if something is urgent, why not try outsourcing the task, that way you can continue working towards your business targets.

Key Decisions

Long term business objectives are not something that should be attempted on a day to day basis. Having extended periods i.e. 3 months, 6 months, 1 year etc. will help show the direction you want to take the business.

Taking strategic business decisions based on specific daily situation is unlikely to lead you to your business goals. Writing a complete plan with targets for your business will help you stay focused and resolute in the long term.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, in order to overcome "SOS - Shiny Object Syndrome" you need to run the idea through the above 4 steps. Following the steps will help your business move forward to your ultimate goals.

Have you ever experienced shiny object syndrome? What did you do to overcome it? I would really like to hear your comments.

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