Question 1

1. Is "Shiny Object Syndrome" a real thing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, though it's not a clinical diagnosis. It's a common behavioral pattern, especially among visionary and ADHD-wired entrepreneurs. It describes the tendency to get distracted by new, exciting ideas, causing a constant shifting of priorities that can destabilize a team and kill momentum on existing projects.

Question 2

2. How can I tell the difference between a true "shiny object" and a genuine opportunity?

Accepted Answer

A genuine opportunity typically aligns with your company's current 90-day priorities and has data or clear customer feedback to support it. A "shiny object" often feels exciting but is disconnected from your current strategic goals and may lack a clear path to implementation. The Idea Dock is the perfect tool to help you differentiate between the two by giving you a place to park ideas for strategic review later.

Question 3

3. How do I get my Visionary CEO to focus without shutting down their creativity?

Accepted Answer

This is the central challenge for an operational leader. The key is to create a system that honors the idea without disrupting the focus. You can't just say "no"; you have to provide a "not right now, but it won't be forgotten." The Idea Dock is a great first step.

However, if your CEO consistently bypasses the system, the issue is often deeper than just a lack of process. It can be a sign of a breakdown in the Visionary/Integrator partnership, a lack of trust in the team's ability to execute, or a lack of clarity in the company's overall strategic direction.

Navigating these deeper partnership dynamics is where true alignment is forged. This is the core of the work I do with my 1-on-1 coaching clients. We work together to build not just the tool, but the trust and communication rhythms required to truly harness visionary energy and turn it into a strategic asset.

Question 4

4. Besides the team, who does Shiny Object Syndrome hurt the most?

Accepted Answer

It often hurts your best customers. When resources are constantly pulled from core projects to chase new ideas, it can lead to delayed timelines, a drop in quality, and a failure to deliver on your core promises. Your most loyal customers, who rely on your consistency, can end up feeling neglected.

Question 5

5. How can I manage my own Shiny Object Syndrome as a leader?

Accepted Answer

The best way is to have a clear, written set of personal and professional goals for the quarter. When a new, exciting idea pops up (whether from you or someone else), you can immediately filter it through the lens of your current priorities. Ask yourself: "Does this new idea move me closer to my stated goals, or is it a distraction?" This simple filter is your best defense.

Focus

Stop Shiny Object Syndrome with The Idea Dock (An Alternative to “the Idea Parking Lot”)

Find Your Stability.
Lead with Confidence.

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Find Your Stability.Lead with Confidence.

Coaching

Resources

Company

Find Your Stability.
Lead with Confidence.