Overwhelm is a real thing in for many solo entrepreneurs. There is always 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.

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 business killer.

Entrepreneurs, 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.

All that work… just gone.

The shiny object syndrome is real. Don’t let this happen to you.

We are on a passion-driven mission to change the world. We really don’t have time to follow the shiny objects. Here are some strategies to help you stay on your mission.

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 coaching program? Earn a living from your blog? Design websites for offline businesses?

Regardless of your business model, if you don’t know your goal, you will always struggle with focus, and every new strategy and tool will pull you further away from your dreams.

Entrepreneurs, the shiny object syndrome is real.

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. Don’t click on ads. (Believe me, I’ve fallen prey to many times.)

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

Recharge

As entrepreneurs, we work long hours. Exhaustion is not just about the body. Often our minds will shut down because we just can’t think anymore. Self-care helps us to get back in touch with our inspiration and our motivation for the work we do. When we take the time to shut down, to go for a walk or get some exercise, to get a massage or just a nice hot bath, to meditate and reflect in solitude and silence, to do some yoga or just a few stretching exercises, we are able to re-center our minds and find some balance.

As a Soul’opreneur, my soul’s journey is to inspiring others be the best leader they can be for themselves, their team, and their business. My mission is to guide leaders to take full responsibility for their life and overall well-being.