Are you suffering from shiny object syndrome?
You know what I’m talking about.
You tend to be easily distracted by new, exciting, or novel things.
You find yourself constantly chasing after the next big idea or opportunity without fully committing to or following through with your current writing projects or goals.
In fact, when the writing doesn’t flow, you suddenly get another great idea for something else to write and you start on it without finishing your work-in-progress.
Shiny object syndrome affects most writers from time to time.
But beware!
Shiny object syndrome can lead to a lack of focus, productivity, and ultimately hinder your progress and growth as a writer.
So, what can you do to make sure you don’t succumb to this syndrome?
Well, first it’s helpful to know some of the reasons writers are so vulnerable to it.
See if any of these reasons sound familiar:
Reason #1. You Have a Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).
You might fear missing out on the latest trends or opportunities, leading you to jump from one thing to another in pursuit of excitement or success.
Reason #2. You Lack Clarity or Purpose as Far as Your Writing Goes.
If you are unclear about your long-term writing goals or lack a clear sense of purpose, you may be easily swayed by new opportunities that seem promising in the moment.
Reason #3. You Crave Instant Gratification.
Shiny objects often provide immediate gratification or excitement, whereas long-term goals may require sustained effort and patience, making it tempting to abandon current pursuits for quick wins.
Reason #4. You Overestimate the Potential.
You may overestimate the potential benefits of new ideas or opportunities while underestimating the challenges or drawbacks involved in pursuing them.
I’ll bet some of these behaviors are familiar.
So now let’s take a look at some strategies for overcoming shiny object syndrome.
#1. Define Clear Writing and Career Goals.
Clearly define your long-term writing goals and priorities to maintain focus and resist the urge to chase after every new opportunity that comes your way.
This is where a mission statement or statement of purpose as a writer comes in.
Be sure you have one.
#2. Develop a Decision-Making Framework.
Establish criteria or a decision-making framework to evaluate whether a new opportunity aligns with your goals and whether it’s worth pursuing at the expense of your current commitments.
Note: This is where a mission statement for yourself as a writer can be most helpful.
#3. Practice Mindfulness.
Cultivate mindfulness to become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, and impulses.
This can help you recognize when you’re being tempted by shiny objects and allow you to refocus your attention on your priorities.
#4. Limit Distractions.
Minimize distractions by setting boundaries, such as limiting time spent on social media or unsubscribing from unnecessary email lists that bombard you with new opportunities.
#5. Stay Committed.
Practice discipline and perseverance by staying committed to your current writing projects or goals, even when faced with the allure of shiny objects.
Remind yourself of the importance of seeing things through to completion.
You’ll never become a best-selling author if you don’t get your book written, for example.
#6. Seek Accountability.
Surround yourself with people who can hold you accountable and provide support for staying focused on your goals.
This could be a mentor, coach, or supportive peers.
Now that you know some of the causes of shiny object syndrome and have some strategies for avoiding it, don’t let it get you off track.
Maintain your focus on the things that truly matter to you.
Like finishing your novel, for example.
Try it!
Oh, and one more thing…if you haven’t subscribed to The Morning Nudge, be sure to do that now, so you get our Law of Attraction Checklist for Writers and free access to our Private Resource Library for Writers, as well as a short email every weekday morning to help you manifest your writing dreams!
