Shiny Object Syndrome for Creatrepreneurs (how I focus)

Start a blog to create passive income. Build your Brand on X (Twitter). Short-form content and videos on TikTok is the way.

If you’ve spent any time on the internet, you’ll know: things are noisy.

Shiny objects are everywhere and it’s become a proverbial thorn in our sides.

But the truth is, everything and nothing is the perfect choice. Each iridescent object has its own merit and its own drawbacks.

So this is my guide on how I choose, stay focused and only let the most relevant things in.

Let’s get to it.

Table of Contents Show

What Is Shiny Object Syndrome?

The battle for our attention persists. And distraction isn’t your fault.

It’s all these damn shiny objects we’re expected to deal with.

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.

Examples + Signs of Shiny Object Struggles

• Struggling to finish stuff or see things through

• Frequently changing goals or objectives

• Not having a strong and specific mission, vision or purpose

• Often going down rabbit holes of new “opportunities”

• Comparing yourself to others (often)

• Only working on a project when you’re motivated

Ignoring Shiny Objects (6 ways I focus)

Focus is the goal.

Because narrow and sustained attention over a long period of time leads to one thing: results.

So here’s how I do it.

1. All the Basic Advice (is right)

Let’s get the boring – but accurate – tips out of the way first.

These are the cliches that dominate most lists. As broken as these records may seem, they do offer a lot of value though.

Here are your starting points for dealing with shiny object issues:

• Define your values

• Clearly define your goals (and attach them to your values)

• Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps

• Have a clear vision or purpose (create a personal mission statement)

• I love using the Japanese concept of ikigai

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. Set (realistic) Timelines

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 actually took them to succeed

• Don’t quit your job before letting your side gig grow

• Become a process-oriented person with a growth mindset

4. Create A System

Systems work.

They’re a personalized template for checking off 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:

• Create a workflow

• Shrink your focus

• For example, break down bigger goals into their smaller component pieces

• Match your work to your mood

• For example, I’m more creative in the mornings and evenings

• So I schedule creative work during these times

5. Remove Rabbit Holes From the Equation

For me, shiny objects are reverberations from doom scrolling and random rabbit holes.

Internet distractions give you shiny objects.

For me, rabbit holes come from boredom and listlessness with my current work.

So if we can nip these in the bud, we’re setting ourselves up nicely.

So here are my top moves for removing rabbit holes from the equation:

• Choose just 1-2 platforms to focus on

• Delete irrelevant apps if you can’t stay away

• Schedule in regular detoxes

• Set up app limit timers on your top distracting apps

6. Stack the Deck

It’s important to remember that shiny objects never disappear.

You just get better at blocking them out. And stacking the deck is an awesome way to combat them.

I’m currently dealing with a shiny mistress myself. But I’m using my personal stack of cards to stay the course.

Stacking the deck means creating a context in your life that supports your goals and focus.

Here’s how I stack the deck:

• My inner circle

• Surround myself with like-minded people who inspire me

• My outer circle

• Consume content that’s motivating, optimistic and educational

• My environment

• Make my spaces inspiring and energetic (I like plants, artwork and natural light)

• Go to places that inspire me (like a good cafe)

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