Episode 138 – Shiny Object Syndrome with Amber Hawley

Podcast Episode about Shiny Object Syndrome

About Amber

This week I’m talking about shiny object syndrome and modern distractions with Amber Hawley. We delve into what that might look like in your (and our) lives and how to manage it better.

” Amber Hawley is a licensed therapist and lifestyle strategist who works with entrepreneurial individuals and couples with the emotional side of business. She is the owner of a therapy practice in Silicon Valley, host of The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur and Couples Fix podcasts, wife, mom of three kids, and Marvel movie super fan. Amber originally worked in the tech industry but her love for people led her to pursue a career where meaningful relationships are at the center of every thing she does.”

What is Shiny Object Syndrome

Modern life has meant that we are becoming constantly distracted. We can be seeking out of something better. But Amber asks why are we doing that?

She finds with her clients that they are using the shiny object to distract them from their real feelings. Whilst it might make them happy for a short amount of time, they are not addressing the route cause and the cycle begins again.

How is being distracted affecting our health?

Amber as an ADHD sufferer recognises that whilst this is a neurological condition, many of us display similar signs. And this stress often leads to overwhelm.

What signs should we be looking for?

Our relationships have changed and we can feel a lack of connection. If this is the case then look at what you, and your loved ones are doing. Are you really spending time together? Are you constantly busy with tasks that really don’t need to be done?

Are you feeling overwhelmed, or even bored with your life? This is a common sign of being to busy and too distracted.

A feeling of lack of connection, no time for self care or for joy. All are drainers on our energy leaving us exhausted and stressed.

What can we do to be more in the moment?

Just choosing 1-3 tasks per day that really need to be done is key, then allowing yourself to actually finish when those tasks are done, rather than searching out more. This is not just liberating it can help us realise how much time we are spending being busy rather than achieving what we need.

Finding time for fun! Both Amber and I agree that we all should be having much more fun that we do. When was the last time you prioritised fun and added it to your daily task list?