Beware of Shiny Object Syndrome ✨
I’m currently reading The Art of Money Getting by P.T. Barnum, and one of the chapters that really struck me is called "Beware of Outside Operations." Barnum talks about how some people, after building a fortune, end up losing it all by getting involved in things they don’t fully understand...often because they’re chasing after “big wins” outside their area of expertise. This reminds me of shiny object syndrome... It’s that urge we get to chase every new idea or opportunity that looks like it’s going to bring fast success. You know the feeling...you see a new business trend, an investment opportunity, or some new tool, and suddenly it seems like this is going to be the thing that makes everything easier. But, more often than not, it just pulls you away from what’s actually working. Barnum explains that many people lose everything when they stray from what they know best. They forget that their success came from being focused, disciplined, and mastering their field. When they start investing large sums of money in areas they don’t understand, they set themselves up for failure. Barnum compares it to Samson losing his strength after being shorn of his locks—without focus, you’re no stronger than anyone else. If you’ve ever been tempted by the latest and greatest new opportunity, this is a reminder to stay focused on what you do best. Here’s how you can avoid falling into the trap of shiny object syndrome: 1. Stick to Your Strengths: Keep your focus on the business or skills that got you this far. If you’re doing well in your current field, doubling down on what works will take you much further than switching gears too often. 2. Limit Your Risk: If you do want to explore new opportunities, make sure it’s only with a small amount of your resources. Don’t gamble your entire business or fortune on something you don’t fully understand. 3. Remember Why You Succeeded: Your success didn’t happen by chance. It came from hard work, focus, and persistence. Don’t lose sight of that by jumping into something new just because it sounds exciting.