I started this post Monday. Which figures.

You see, I’ve got Shiny Object Syndrome.

Gary Barnes told me.

Yes, world-famous business coach Gary Barnes.

I would like to tell you all about Gary — and why we were chatting — but I’m trying not to go off topic – because that’s my problem.

And maybe yours too??

Shiny Object Syndrome

I didn’t need Gary to explain Shiny Object Syndrome.

As soon as he said it, I already knew what it was.

It means that I always give my attention to the shiniest object in front of me at any given time. And, as a result, I lack focus — despite my best intentions.

Have You Been Paying Attention?

Given that I have been writing a series of posts about ‘how to get attention’, I thought it would be fitting to take note of what gets my attention. So, I sat down to write this post.

Then I checked my email. Several ‘needed’ a response.

The phone rang. The Sheriff.

A meeting. More email. More calls.

Where was I??

Oh yeah…

Shiny Object Syndrome.

Does this sound familiar?

I remember a friend once referred to me as ‘the girl with the world’s shortest attention span.’ I was mildly insulted, but mostly confused because that’s just not the way I see myself. And yet, turns out, it’s true.

It’s Not All Bad

The thing is, I am a really good reporter because of Shiny Object Syndrome.

I pay attention to everything and everybody.

And there are certainly a number of scenarios where that has served me well.

But sometimes our strengths in one context may be our weaknesses in another.

Gary gave me a much needed reminder, so I thought I’d pass it on.

There are a lot of shiny objects out there.

But not all that glitters is gold.



Do you have Shiny Object Syndrome?

What grabbed your attention today??

(Image: Mike Davenport, StickFigureSimple.com)

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