Avoiding Shiny Objects

There is one lesson that I keep failing to really learn. And that is to double down on what’s working and not get distracted. 

It’s simple, but I find it so hard to pull off. 

It’s something I struggle with every day at Drift. I’m someone who is constantly chasing the next shiny object. 

I’m an internal optimist and I always think that the next great thing is just around the corner. I believe in the power of ideas, and I’d say that everyone at Drift has no shortage of ideas. 

This means that we are all constantly being bombarded by new ideas -- ones that always sound better, more compelling and easier than just continuing to do what we know has worked. 

So how do I (and how can you) avoid getting distracted by the new shiny thing?

1. Sleep on it: A few years ago, I talked about how, after interviewing a candidate, I wouldn’t react positively or negatively until I had time to sleep on it. I’m trying to do that with new ideas, because most of the time, if you give yourself a day or two, you won’t go back to those shiny objects. 
2. Set goals: Once you set that goal -- personal or professional -- pay attention as to whether or not you are actually making progress. For some things you’ll be able to measure goals after a week or a month -- but others you might need to wait longer in order to see trends about what is or isn’t working. So often I’ll find myself thinking of something new that I’ll try to do both things instead of killing what’s not working. Don’t do that! Be honest about the goal, and be willing to pivot if necessary, or stay the course if not. 
3. Get a second opinion: When in doubt, ask an objective party what they think about your shiny new idea. Talk to a few people and see if they think it’s as good an idea as you thought. 

All of this is easier said than done -- but if you focus on the end goal and eliminate the distractions that pop up, you will be much better off. 

Tune in to Seeking Wisdom to hear more on this topic. 

- DC