Welcome to the final installment of our series on Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS). In our previous posts, we broke down the acronym F.O.C.U.S: ‘Find,’ ‘Observe,’ ‘Commit,’ and ‘Understand.’ These stages are integral in managing the pull of the ‘new and shiny.’ As solo female entrepreneurs, creatives, and high-achieving professionals, you’ve come a long way, but the journey doesn’t stop here. Now, let’s unveil the final stage: ‘Succeed.’
5. Succeed (Accountability and Celebrating Progress)
The last piece of the F.O.C.U.S puzzle is ‘Succeed,’ and it involves two critical aspects: holding yourself accountable and celebrating your progress.
Accountability
Holding yourself accountable is one of the most effective ways to maintain commitment to your goals and resist the allure of shiny objects. Here are some strategies you can employ:
Peer Accountability: Share your goals with a friend, a mentor, or a peer group. They can provide the support and encouragement you need to stay focused and can also serve as a gentle reminder when you deviate.
Professional Help: Engaging with a business coach or joining a mastermind group can be a beneficial investment. These professionals can help you stay on track, offer advice when shiny objects appear, and provide an external perspective.
Celebrating Progress
Celebrating your progress is just as important as holding yourself accountable. Recognizing the small wins along your journey can boost your morale, maintain your momentum, and remind you of your capabilities, helping you resist the temptation of SOS. So, celebrate when you finish a project, achieve a sales target, or simply when you say no to a shiny object that doesn’t align with your goals.
Turning SOS into an Asset
Remember, overcoming SOS doesn’t mean suppressing your curiosity or dampening your enthusiasm for new ideas. Instead, it’s about channeling these traits more effectively. When managed correctly, your curiosity and enthusiasm can become powerful assets, driving innovation and growth in your business.
The journey to overcome SOS might not be an easy one, but it is undoubtedly worthwhile. And while the F.O.C.U.S strategy provides a roadmap, the journey’s speed and route will differ for everyone. Be patient with yourself. There will be times when you might veer off course, but remember, each detour can provide a new learning opportunity.
So, armed with the F.O.C.U.S strategy and an understanding of SOS, you are ready to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with more confidence. And as you journey on, always remember the wise words of the author, Chris Brogan: “The goal isn’t more money. The goal is living life on your terms.”
Here’s to your success in overcoming SOS and carving out your unique entrepreneurial path. You’ve got this!
About the author
Shirley L.A. Brooks is a sought-after life and business strategist who blends her expertise in entrepreneurship, strategic consulting, and personal growth coaching to holistically empower individuals and their businesses. Known for her dynamic and insightful approach, Shirley goes beyond traditional business strategies, focusing on the interconnected growth of personal ambitions and business success. Her commitment to fostering transformational journeys resonates in every interaction, making her a treasured ally for those aspiring to reach their full potential. Learn more about her at bit.ly/Shirleylabrooks