Overwhelm is a real thing in businesses especially in this world where we have many new online businesses. There is 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, it doesn’t end! 

And one of the biggest contributors? Shiny object syndrome. 

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 ultimate 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 based on a haunch or worse, something someone else is doing.

All that work… just gone in a heartbeat. 

Don’t let this happen to you. Here’s what you can do to ensure you stay on track and achieve your goals.

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 six-figure business? Earn a living from your blog? Design websites for offline businesses? Teach people to invest?

Regardless of your business model, if you don’t know your goal, you struggle with focus, and every new strategy and tool pulls 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 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 Facebook groups. Oh and don’t click on ads. That’s one of the easiest ways to get sucked in.

If you are currently struggling to stay on track or have lost your way completely, re-focus on what you know works, keep your goals in mind, and recommit to making your business as good as it can be. Let’s get you back on that path.