Today, I want to talk about shiny objects and how they’ll hold back your freelance career if you let them.
Shiny objects are tips, tricks, or techniques that distract you from your main path. They make you think there might be a better, faster way to succeed.
When I started my journey to the writer’s life, I was plagued by indecision. I couldn’t figure out which direction I wanted to go or which route would give me the best payout in the shortest time.
Shiny objects constantly tempted me.
I would choose one direction only to hear about a better, faster one the next day. I would start learning about that, but in no time, I’d hear about something else that seemed even better.
It was a frustrating struggle that left me with a mess of training programs and bookmarked articles, but no progress. No matter how fast I learned, it felt like I would never know enough.
Finally, I heard about FOCUS (follow one course until successful), and I decided to come up with a plan – and stick to it.
I joined AWAI’s Circle of Success and met with Rebecca Matter. She helped me come up with a plan, and I didn’t look back.
I put away the programs and started ignoring the emails that didn’t support my focused path.
Filtering out the temptations to stray from my path is one thing that allows me to live the writer’s life.
Here’s how you can start avoiding shiny objects today:
First, decide on your path.
To make it really simple, pick an AWAI course. They come with step-by-step directions. It doesn’t matter which one as long as it’s something you’re excited about doing. Then make a commitment to finish that course and take action on what you learn.
Once you’ve made that commitment, it won’t be easy to stick to it. You’re likely to hear about all kinds of other paths and programs.
If you find yourself unable to commit and constantly chasing one method after another, but not making any real progress, take stock:
What happened with my last method? Did I follow through or abandon it? Why?
If you still think your last method is worth pursuing, don’t move on until you follow through. File away the new method for later.
If you still want to move forward on the new method, ask yourself:
Is this method essential to my success or another reason for me to procrastinate?
Essential would be contacting clients. Nonessential would be signing up for the newest social media site. Then ask:
What proof do I have that this method is better than my last method?
If it’s not better – or you have no way to know if it’s better – proceed with caution. Don’t try stuff just for the sake of trying it. Make sure you have concrete evidence that this is the way to go and that you will see results with this method.
Then, no matter which method you choose, make a commitment to see it through.
Going through this process has helped keep me on a path where I’m making progress instead of chasing after the newest thing.
I’ve found the key to achieving the writer’s life is staying focused and avoiding the pitfall of shiny objects.
Looking back, I realize my fascination with new programs was just an excuse to procrastinate. But along the way, I did find a few shortcuts that work and will get anyone to the writer’s life faster. (I’ll share them in next week’s article.)
So how about you? Do shiny objects distract you or have you found a way to overcome them?
Hi Christina,
I just finally read this article about shiny objects.. I had avoided reading it because I had a lesson in blinking lights once; but now that I have read another one of your really well done articles, I wanted to tell you how much your work has encouraged me, enlightened me as well. Thank you! Please keep up the great work!
You have encouraged me that Im not alone in my wanderings as an aspiring writer, by sharing your heart, and this website rocks and looking forward to meeting you, hopefully in Delray.
Cheers!
Cheryl
Hi Cheryl, Thank you! Let me know if you have any specific questions you’d like answered here on this site. :)
Yes, shiny objects do distract me! This post really hit home. I’m at a point where I really NEED to build my freelance business but don’t exactly know how. So, yes I keep following web trails and have taken a few courses but don’t feel like I’m making any progress! There is so much I don’t know that I get distracted by all there is to learn and all the paths I could follow. Thanks for your advice. I’m going to try the FOCUS technique!
Hi Jen, Thank you for commenting! If there is any way I can help you choose what to focus on, please let me know. :) I’m playing around with the idea of releasing some sort of “decision maker guide” … Do you think that would be helpful?
Hey Christina,
Thanks so much for sharing what so many of us who are “life long learners” struggle with on today’s Information Age.
I am very curious how your path with AWAI’s circle or success turned out for you. I am wanting to do it because of this very reason of wanting to FOCUS. But it’s a lot of money.
Did you get out of the program what you were hoping?
Thanks so much for helping out if you can!
-Chad
Hi Chad,
Thanks for commenting! Yes, without a doubt, Circle of Success was more than worth it. Not only have I paid for it many times over with client work, but I’m still using the program and getting benefits – like new courses, updated information, and connections – from it. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to send me an email: [email protected]
Thanks!
Wow! Talk about finding the right article at the right time.
This really hit home as I have been on a path to find my groove for the past couple months.
It was funny to hear that I’m not the only one with a long list of bookmarked articles that frankly, I probably won’t read because there is always new info.
I’m going to FOCUS. Unfortunately, freelance copywriting is my only gig at the moment so can’t afford the AWAI course. Here’s what I’m doing instead:
– Start morning by writing 750 words (morning pages)
– Submit 3 proposals on UpWork
– Copy 1 classic advertisement by hand
– Watch at least 1 video on inspiring business leader
– Read my copywriting books before bed
What do you think Christina? Thank you for the inspiration!!
Hi Roman, That’s a great plan! Don’t forget to look for projects at http://www.directresponsejobs.com/ :)