Episode 8 - How To Combat Shiny Object Syndrome

Simplify with Knap Creative

Here’s a problem I’ll bet anyone with even an ounce of creativity in their body deals with. Shiny Object Syndrome. You deal with it, I DEFINITELY deal with it. I just cannot help it. Sometimes there is just a storm of new and shiny ideas in my head, and some of them might be gems, and some of them might not be, and that is kind of the problem!

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

1. How to combat shiny object syndrome
2. How to manage all those shiny ideas that come to your head
3. How to keep your creativity up (I know, it can be a struggle, but you can do it!)

I know, I know, you have a really great idea. Not just regular great, but REALLY GREAT. In fact, you have a whole bunch of really great ideas. I hear you, friend (and I’m totally with you). Ideas are why you’re an entrepreneur in the first place.

The question is, how do we distinguish good ideas from sucky ones? How do we stay away from trivial distractions that steer you off course? Here are a few tips that’ll help.

Highlights & Takeaways

• Not taking advantage of your brilliance feels like leaving opportunity on the table. It’s very easy to get sidetracked… and because you do all the things, you end up doing nothing. And that’s a bummer.
• It’s a great idea to have someone in your corner to not only set goals and hold you accountable, but also hear you out when you have a new idea. A lot of times you’ll talk yourself out of it before it takes over your entire life. You need someone who will give it to you straight and has your best interests at heart.
• You need to have clear goals, or you’ll keep paddling without going anywhere. What are you trying to do with your business? Who are you trying to help? What is the problem that you’re trying to solve?
• Be sure to consider your bandwidth alongside of your goals. What do you want your life to look like?
• It doesn’t all have to happen today. If you have a great idea but don’t have the bandwidth right now, pop them into an “idea parking lot” and take notes when you’re fired up and inspired about it. It’ll be there when you need it.
• Planning and goal setting can feel very productive, but they’re not going to get you anywhere. Clarity comes from doing, not from daydreaming. Look at the big picture, but don’t get stuck in the planning phase—just jump in.
• Success is not microwavable. Take the time that it takes, do the job well, and show up every day for two years. Once you start gaining momentum, it’s much easier to park your ideas for another day… but you can’t steer a parked car.

Connect with us

• Instagram, aka my happy place: @knap.creative
• More episodes: https://knapcreative.ca/podcast

Referenced in the show

• Toolbox Info - Knap Creative