Magpies, Squirrels, and Shiny Object Syndrome For Goal Setting
That is today’s metaphor.
But first, we must talk about Shiny Object Syndrome.
Shiny Object Syndrome is a common affliction in the realms of entrepreneurship and creative endeavors. It seduces individuals with the allure of novelty, diverting their attention from established goals.
It’s that tendency to get focused on something new and exciting, often at the expense of what we’ve already got going on. In a business setting, this manifests as chasing the latest strategy, tactic, or industry advice that’s making the rounds. The moment a new trend or “must-try” technique pops up, we can’t help but drop everything to chase after it.
We hear Shiny Object Syndrome from words similar to, “It worked for company ABC and they have announced record profits! Quick, pivot to mimic them!” Or “MR XYZ just broke 40 millions views in an hour. We must do this now!”
It’s like we’ve got the attention span of a goldfish sometimes. We get so enamored with the shiny, novel thing that we completely lose sight of the solid foundations we’ve already built. Instead of doubling down on what’s working, we end up jumping from one fleeting fad to the next, never really giving anything a chance to take root. And never letting it grow.
The worst part? All that time and energy spent chasing those shiny objects? It’s usually at the expense of the core work we should be focused on. We get so distracted by the new and exciting that we neglect the tried-and-true stuff that’s actually getting measurable results for our business.
It’s a vicious cycle. We get lured in by the promise of quick fixes and easy wins, only to spin our wheels and making little to no genuine progress. All because we couldn’t resist the siren call of the latest and greatest industry craze.
After all, being fast is a human impulse, while being slow is a choice.
To illuminate this phenomenon, we turn to the behavioral patterns of magpies and squirrels. Magpies, renowned for their attraction to shiny objects, mirror the tendency of entrepreneurs and creators to chase after new opportunities. Conversely, squirrels exhibit a disciplined approach, as they gathering resources not for the immediate, but for the harsh winters.
By exploring these parallels, we can gain valuable insights into the pitfalls of Shiny Object Syndrome. Maybe we can uncover strategies for overcoming its grasp.
In the natural world, magpies are kind of famous for their attraction to shiny objects. These birds, with their sharp eyes and insatiable curiosity, just can’t resist those glittering trinkets and baubles. They’ll collect them up, captivated by the allure of something new and sparkly. These birds collect shiny objects for mate attraction, territorial display, curiosity and display. They have their function, but often it is short lived.
And you know what? That same phenomenon plays out in the entrepreneurial and creative realms, too. We’re a lot like those magpies in a lot of ways. We get drawn in by the promise of excitement and potential success that comes with the latest and greatest opportunity. It’s like we just can’t help but chase after those shiny objects, even if it means neglecting what we’ve already got going on.
How many times have you found yourself jumping from one new idea or strategy to the next, unable to stick with anything long enough to really see the results? It’s the entrepreneurial equivalent of a magpie hopping from one glittering bauble to the next, never quite satisfied.
The thing is, that tendency to get distracted by shiny objects is a real double-edged sword. On one hand, it keeps us curious, innovative, and open to new possibilities. But on the other, it can also lead us down a path of scattered focus, wasted effort, and missed opportunities. We end up spreading ourselves too thin, never really giving anything the time and attention it needs to truly flourish.
Entrepreneurs and creators are inherently driven by the new. However, this drive can sometimes lead to a relentless thirst for the next big thing. This is much like a magpie’s fixation on shiny objects. When presented with a novel concept or trend, individuals may feel compelled to explore it, believing it will unlock their success.
Consider an entrepreneur who stumbles upon a new market trend or emerging technology. Entranced by the possibilities it presents, they may abandon their current projects in favor of pursuing this shiny new opportunity. Similarly, a content creator may become enamored with a viral video format or social media platform, shifting their focus away from their established content strategy.
The allure of shiny objects can be particularly enticing because it offers the promise of quick wins and immediate gratification. Now, that is addictive. Individuals may be drawn to these opportunities by the prospect of rapid growth or recognition, fueling their desire to chase after the next shiny object.
However, the pursuit comes with its challenges. Like a magpie collecting an assortment of trinkets without a clear purpose, entrepreneurs and creators who succumb to shiny object syndrome may find themselves scattered and unfocused. They may spread themselves too thin across multiple projects, diluting their efforts and hindering their ability to make meaningful progress.
Moreover, the allure of shiny objects can be deceptive. What initially appears to be a promising opportunity may turn out to be a distraction in disguise.
Now the squirrel has got a different game plan. They’re busy gathering up resources and preparing for whatever challenges might come their way. They know that the winter is often harsh and cruel. They are prepared for the worse.
To carry on the metaphor, methodically building up your reserves, getting ready for whatever the future might hold often gives you room. It’s not as flashy as chasing after every latest trend. But slow and steady really can win the race when it comes to achieving lasting success.
Squirrels exhibit a remarkable ability to prioritize and plan for the future. Through the ebbs and flows of the seasons, they gather nuts and seeds during times of abundance, storing them away for leaner times. This approach allows squirrels to weather adversity and thrive even in the face of scarcity.
The key is setting clear long-term goals and being deliberate about how you spend your time and resources. That way, you can avoid falling into the trap of “Shiny Object Syndrome” and stay focused on what really matters. It’s tempting to get sidetracked by the latest trends or flashy opportunities. But the most successful folks are the ones who can prioritize the projects and initiatives that align with their vision and values.
Moreover, the wisdom of the squirrel extends beyond mere accumulation of resources. Squirrels also demonstrate adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. When confronted with obstacles or changes in their environment, they have the resources to give them space for safety.
In our rapidly evolving world, success often demands the ability to stay grounded. Sometimes this means being aware that what you are doing is actually the right thing for your company. The most resilient folks are the ones who can resist that urge and stay focused on what really matters.
Rather than getting swept up in every new trend or opportunity, the smart play is to maintain a steady course. That means being willing to pivot when needed, but always keeping your eye on the long-term vision. It’s about finding that balance between constancy and adaptability.
After all, the squirrel doesn’t get distracted by every sparkly bauble. They know what they need to do to weather the changes and come out on top. Entrepreneurs and creators would be wise to follow their lead.
Furthermore, the squirrel’s approach to resource management underscores the importance of efficiency and optimization. Squirrels carefully allocate their energy and efforts, focusing on tasks that yield the greatest return on investment.
And they make it through the winter.
Remember, the new is always exciting, and that's the problem.
A critical first step in overcoming Shiny Object Syndrome is setting clear goals and priorities. By defining what success looks like and identifying the key milestones along the way, individuals can maintain focus and avoid being swayed. And if something comes along that is new and helps the goals, perhaps it has a place in the plan. But you must allow that space and provide that direction.
Saying ‘no’ to irrelevant opportunities is another essential strategy for overcoming shiny object syndrome. Rather than spreading ourselves thin, the wisest approach is to carefully evaluate each prospect based on its potential impact and relevance to the goal.
Just because we can do anything doesn’t mean we can, or should, do everything. Ruthlessly prioritizing is actually deceptively healthy.
It takes discipline to stay focused amidst the constant allure of new and exciting options. But by resisting the urge to chase every tantalizing opportunity, we free ourselves to dedicate our time and energy to the initiatives that will move the needle.
Quality over quantity, as they say.
Separating true opportunities from mere distractions takes some serious critical thinking and analysis. It’s not good to follow the impulse of the latest trends or the promise of a quick win. It’s also not enough to lean on the results of your competitors. You really dig into the research and vet each option thoroughly. Assess the viability, weigh the potential risks. Don’t let yourself get swayed by flashy pitches or surface-level appeal.
The key is maintaining that disciplined, discerning mindset. That way, you can make informed decisions about where to focus your precious time and resources.
Moreover, avoiding shiny distractions requires a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and think outside the box. Instead of following the crowd or chasing after the latest fads, individuals must be willing to chart their own course and pursue opportunities that may not be immediately obvious to others.
And that takes a lot of wisdom and guts to do.
The concept of the magpie and squirrel serves as a metaphorical framework for understanding Shiny Object Syndrome. However, Mother Nature is far more nuanced than a rambling I have on a Wednesday morning.
Let me be clear, I did pick and choose the behaviours of these two animals to illustrate a trap entrepreneurs and creators often fall into. The message still stands though. Are you thinking like a magpie or a squirrel?
The magpie represents the tendency to be easily swayed by shiny distractions. It is the allure of new opportunities that promise excitement and potential success. Just as the magpie is drawn to glittering trinkets without considering their long-term value, individuals affected by shiny object syndrome may find themselves chasing after every new trend or idea. Often without pausing to evaluate its relevance or alignment with their goals.
On the other hand, the squirrel holds the virtues of focus, discipline, and long-term planning. Like the squirrel diligently gathering resources for the future, individuals who adopt the mindset of the squirrel prioritize their goals and make deliberate choices about where to invest their time and energy. Rather than being distracted by shiny objects, they stay focused on their long-term needs.
In the context of the strategies for overcoming shiny object syndrome, the magpie and squirrel metaphor underscores the importance of staying true to one’s long-term goals and priorities.
As humans, we can both play the role of a magpie and squirrel.
How you do it? Well, that’s up to you.
