If you’re neurospicy, you’ve probably experienced Shiny Object Syndrome—jumping from one exciting idea to the next before finishing the one you started. It’s not just a productivity challenge; it can leave you with a pile of half-finished projects, a scattering of to-do lists, and a nagging sense of frustration.

But don’t worry! You’re not alone, and there are ways to channel your enthusiasm for new ideas while still getting things done.

What is Shiny Object Syndrome?

Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS) is the tendency to be easily distracted by new and exciting ideas or projects, often at the expense of completing what’s already on your plate.

• That brilliant business pivot? You want to start it now.
• The new social media trend? Let’s jump on that train!
• A creative idea for a course? Time to design it immediately!

While this enthusiasm can be a strength, SOS often leads to burnout and a lack of tangible progress.

💡 Example: You’ve started three blogs, opened a Pinterest account, and brainstormed a new product line—all in one week. None of them are close to finished.

Why It Happens (Especially to Neurospicy Brains)

Neurodivergent brains thrive on novelty, creativity, and dopamine hits. A fresh idea feels exciting and rewarding—at least in the moment. The less glamorous work of finishing? Not so much.

Other triggers for SOS include:

• Perfectionism: It’s easier to start something new than face the fear of finishing imperfectly.
• Overwhelm: Too many ideas can paralyse progress.
• Imposter syndrome: You might switch gears to avoid the fear of failure.

The Cost of Chasing Shiny Objects

SOS doesn’t just slow your progress—it can derail your business altogether:

Missed opportunities: By spreading yourself thin, you can’t give proper attention to high-priority tasks.

Loss of credibility: Inconsistent focus can confuse your audience or clients.

Exhaustion: Constantly starting over without completing tasks is draining.

💡 My Tip: Recognising SOS is the first step to managing it.

How to Manage Shiny Object Syndrome (in my opinion!)

1. Keep a ‘Shiny Idea Parking Lot’

Not every idea needs immediate action. Create a dedicated notebook, app, or document to jot down your ideas. Revisit them when you’ve completed your current project.

💡 Example: Use a whiteboard or Trello board titled “Future Projects.” It keeps your ideas visible but contained.

2. Break Projects into Bite-Sized Tasks

Big projects can feel overwhelming, making it tempting to chase something new. Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps.

• Instead of “Launch a course,” start with “Write an outline” or “Research platforms.”
• Celebrate each step to keep momentum going.

💡 My Tip: Ticking off small tasks gives you mini dopamine hits—just like chasing new ideas!

3. Set Boundaries with Yourself

Establish clear rules to stop yourself from abandoning current tasks:

• Time limits: Commit to working on one project for a set time (e.g., 30 days) before exploring new ideas.
• Accountability buddies: Share your goals with someone who can gently nudge you to stay focused.

💡 Example: Tell a friend, “I’m working on my email newsletter this month—please stop me if I mention a new project!”

4. Learn to Prioritise

Not all shiny objects are worth chasing. Use a simple prioritisation method to decide:

• Will this idea bring immediate value to your business?
• Is it aligned with your long-term goals?
• Can it wait without negative consequences?

💡 My Tip: When in doubt, ask, “Does this idea help or distract from my current focus?”

5. Limit Your Open Projects

Decide on a maximum number of active projects at any one time. Once you hit that limit, you can’t start anything new until something is finished.

• For example: “I’ll work on no more than two big projects and one small one at a time.”
• If something exciting comes up, put it in your parking lot for later.

💡 Example: Limit yourself to writing one blog post, developing one product, and working on one marketing campaign at a time. This one really helps me.

6. Embrace Imperfection

Fear of failure or not being “good enough” often fuels SOS. Remind yourself that done is better than perfect. You can always improve later.

💡 My Tip: Set a deadline to stop tweaking and just launch the thing!

When It’s Okay to Chase a Shiny Object

Not all new ideas are bad! Sometimes a shiny object is an opportunity you shouldn’t ignore:

• It aligns with your core goals.
• It has immediate potential to grow your business.
• You have the time and resources to pursue it without dropping the ball elsewhere.

💡 Example: If a trend perfectly fits your niche, it might be worth jumping on. Just make sure you evaluate it first.

Final Thoughts

Shiny Object Syndrome isn’t something to beat yourself up about—it’s part of being creative and neurospicy! The goal isn’t to stop having new ideas but to manage them in a way that helps you finish what you start.

By prioritising, setting boundaries, and parking those shiny ideas for later, you can balance your excitement for new projects with the satisfaction of seeing your work through to completion.

Remember, the most successful businesses aren’t built on a dozen half-done projects—they’re built on a few well-finished ones.