Overwhelm is a real thing when owning and building your business. There is always more that could be done. More products to create, more blogs to write, more opt-in pages to build, more clients to connect with, more, more, more.
And one of the biggest contributors? S.O.S. ….no, not of the helping kind. What we’re referring to here is Shiny Object Syndrome. (aka “Squirrel!” … some of you know what I’m referring to!)
Every time you’re tempted to buy that new, must-have tool, or to test out a new marketing method, or even to switch business models entirely, you’re falling victim to this business killer.
Here’s the problem with shiny object syndrome – It prevents you from achieving success by shifting your focus away just when you’re about to hit your sweet spot. It’s true! I’ve seen it happen time and time again. A promising startup just begins to make sales and gain a following, and then out of the blue, the owner does a pivot into a completely unrelated niche or business.
Now, given these recent changing times, sometimes, it is absolutely necessary to pivot your business if the situation calls for it. What we’re talking about here is when business owners change tactics simply because it seems like the “next best thing”.
In that case, all that work… just gone.
Don’t let this happen to you.
Set Clear Goals
The first step toward the clarity and focus you need to avoid shiny object syndrome is simply to know your goals. Where exactly are you going? Do you want to build a 6- or 7- business or coaching program? Earn a living from your blog? Design websites for offline businesses?
Regardless of your business model, if you don’t know your goal, you will always struggle with focus, and every new strategy and tool will pull you further away from your dreams.
Commit to a Plan
Before you implement a new marketing strategy, change business plans, or even purchase a new tool, ask yourself if you’re truly willing to give it a fair shot at success. Marketing strategies take time to grow legs. Business models can require years to show a profit. And that shiny new tool won’t earn back its cost if you toss it aside next week for something different.
Be realistic with yourself, and make a plan to give your idea and plan the best shot at success. Make a commitment to yourself and your business.
Put on Your Blinders
If all else fails, simply stop paying attention. Get off the mailing lists that endlessly promote the latest and greatest idea. Stop reading the blogs and visiting the social media groups. Don’t click on ads.
Focus on what you know works, keep your goals in mind, and recommit to making your business as great as it can be.
We’d like to know!
Do you feel that you have shiny object syndrome? Or do you have a handle on it? If so, how do you deal with overwhelm and shiny object syndrome? Let us know in the comments.
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