Avoiding Shiny Object Syndrome
The Lure of Shiny Objects
In our previous discussion, we dove into exploring Shiny Object Syndrome - a common pitfall for leaders who latch onto the latest trend or technique.
If you're suffering from Shiny Object Syndrome, no judgment here! You're not alone; I'm attracted to shiny objects too.
The human brain is drawn to novelty, so it is no surprise that more new and interesting things come along, and we are magnetically drawn to its enticing lure.
Let's be honest, who doesn't love the thrill of something new and exciting? It's invigorating and fun, and the new opportunities are endless.
However, the downside is that lack of focus and direction can lead you astray from your objectives.
There's good news. Shiny Object Syndrome isn't terminal — there's a remedy. Believe it or not, the cure is another shiny object — a lighthouse!
Before the advent of GPS, lighthouses were beacons for seafarers, guiding them safely to their destination. Your lighthouse is your ultimate goal as a team, department, or division leader. It helps you navigate the sea of distractions, keeping your ship on course.
(As someone who can barely swim, I'm not sure why I'm so fond of water-based metaphors!)
The lighthouse is your team's guiding light and represents your vision and goals. When your team stays on course, it's like a fleet of ships are all aligned and sailing straight toward that shing beacon.
What Happens When You Pursue a New Shiny Object
When a shiny new idea pops up, it can divert the team's focus. Those poor boats have to redirect to a new direction.
What is even more challenging is when nothing comes off the team’s plate. Now they are trying to row two directions at once.
Even worse, do this too many times, and your team becomes exhausted. Or they’re outta here!
Is all hope lost? Is your team doomed to a life at sea forever?
Never fear! We have not reached the end of the story.…
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Shiny Object Assessment
In our rapidly changing world, agility and experimentation are crucial. So how can you tell if the shiny object you're considering is a gem to experiment with or a dud to avoid?
Ask yourself these questions:
Looking back:
🌋 Will this new direction disrupt the momentum we've built so far? If there's a good thing going, introducing something new might be a distraction.
⏰ Is now the right time to introduce another shiny object? If change has been the only constant, your team might be exhausted.
Looking forward:
💰 What's the switching cost? When you change directions, there are financial, energy, and resource implications.
🛑 If you're embarking on a new journey, what will you leave behind or stop doing? Unless you have the means to hire new staff, your current team could burn out.
In the end, being captivated by shiny objects isn't a flaw; it's human nature. The key is to balance this natural curiosity with a clear, unwavering focus on your lighthouse - your ultimate goal.
