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Shiny object syndrome is something that all entrepreneurs deal with at some point in their business, particularly when you’re just getting started.

You no doubt have experienced it more than once. With the constant pressure to try the latest tactic, jump on the latest social media platform or create a new product in a new format cause it’s all the rage right now, it’s inevitable.

There is always more to learn and to do. More products to create, more blogs to write, more opt-in pages to build, and more marketing strategies to try.

As an entrepreneur, you tend to get sidetracked by all the amazing opportunities that come your way and forget what brought you here in the first place.

Every time you’re tempted to buy that new, must-have tool, or to test out a new marketing strategy, you’re falling victim to Shiny Object Syndrome.

The problem with shiny object syndrome is that it prevents you from achieving success. When you keep shifting your focus away from what’s working, then you will never make progress.

I’ve been there. You have a proven marketing strategy but you start to feel like it’s not working fast enough, and then before you know it, a shiny new tactic, lands in your inbox and you’ve started using it.

Worst still, you may give up one business model and jump into the next shiny business model.

All that work… just gone.

Don’t let this happen to you.

You need a way of staying focused while also remaining realistic about your goals.

Here are 3 easy steps entrepreneurs can take in order to overcome shiny object syndrome.

What is shiny object syndrome?

Shiny object syndrome is the tendency to become distracted by ideas, tactics, tools or resources that overwhelm and distract us from our core goals.

We often see shiny objects as more valuable than they really are, and this effect can be especially powerful when you’re first starting out in your business.

It can strike at any time in life and is more likely to occur when you’re working on something new.

It’s also common among people who are trying to learn a new skill or take up a new hobby, so learning how to recognize it and control your urge to seek out new things can be very beneficial.

5 Steps to Overcome Shiny Object Syndrome

1: Set a clear goal and track your progress

Although you might get sidetracked with shiny object syndrome, it’s important to set a clear goal and track your progress.

Where are you headed?
What do you want to accomplish?
Do you want to create a six-figure coaching business?
Earn a living from your blog?

Without a clear goal, focus is impossible, and every new strategy and tool pulls you further away from your dreams.

Once you know your goals you need to create a way to track your progress. It can be just journaling your progress or having a spreadsheet that tracks your weekly or monthly progress.

Decide how you will track your progress then whenever you feel the pull to try something new ask yourself:

Will this help me accomplish my current goal or is it a distraction?
Looking at my progress do I really need this thing right now?

By keeping records of your efforts and results, you’ll have something to look back on when things get frustrating.

2: Ask yourself “Why am I doing this?”

If you find yourself sidetracked with shiny object syndrome, ask yourself why you’re doing this.

As an entrepreneur, you might be excited by the idea of starting your own business or by the opportunity to build a successful product or service.

However, as your business grows, you need to ask yourself why you’re doing this.

Is it to make enough money to create financial freedom?
To leave your 9-5 job behind?
To spend more time with your family and friends?

Once you figure out your true motivations, you’ll be better equipped to stay focused and make better decisions.

3: Learn from your mistakes

As you begin your entrepreneurial journey, you’ll inevitably make mistakes.

When you do, take the time to learn from them and apply what you’ve learned.

While it’s important to keep moving forward and push yourself to grow as a businesswoman, it’s also important to reflect and learn from your mistakes. This will help you to make better decisions in every aspect of your business.

The more you do this, the better your chances of success. And not falling for shiny objects.

4: Commit to a Plan

Before you put into practice a brand-new marketing strategy, change your business plans, or even purchase a new tool, ask yourself if you will at any point give it a fair shot at success.

Marketing strategies take time to really pay off. Business models can take months 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 the best shot at success. Make a commitment to yourself and your business.

5: Put on Your Blinders

My final tip is to simply stop paying attention. Get off the mailing lists that endlessly promote the latest and greatest idea.

Stop reading the blogs and visiting Facebook groups. Don’t click on ads. Mute or unfollow the people on social media who make you feel what you are doing isn’t working.

Focus on what you know works for you, keep your goals in mind, and recommit to making your business as good as it can possibly be.

Finally…

While new ideas and opportunities are the key to entrepreneurial success, you also need to stay grounded and focused on the goal. If you find yourself sidetracked with shiny object syndrome, take a deep breath, focus on your goals, track your progress, stay committed and learn from your mistakes. You’ll be better equipped to achieve your goals. >>