Have you ever looked at something that sparked your attention so much that you can’t keep your eyes off it? 🤩
It’s as if it’s drawing you closer and closer that you only see that one shiny thing.
Let’s dive into Shiny Object Syndrome (SOS) and how it impacts mental health professionals navigating Instagram.
If you're a therapist or coach aiming to build a private practice or an engaged community on social media, this will help you stay focused amidst the constant stream of trends, features, and distractions! 👊
Understanding Shiny Object Syndrome
Shiny Object Syndrome happens when we get easily distracted by the newest, most exciting thing.
Whether it's a trending Instagram feature or the latest viral challenge, it’s easy to lose focus and chase after what’s popular, rather than what aligns with your goals.
For therapists and mental health professionals, who often operate with limited time and brain space, succumbing to this temptation can drain energy and derail your long-term objectives.
Funny enough, Shiny Object Syndrome abbreviated is spelled out as S-O-S… Woah there!
That’s already a sign telling you to pause when you feel the early signs of SOS. 😮💨
Instagram is a dynamic platform, constantly introducing new features—Reels, Stories, interactive stickers, and more!👀
While these tools can help you connect with your audience, the constant influx of new content can also pull your attention away from what truly matters.
So, how can you avoid Shiny Object Syndrome and remain focused as you grow your online presence? 🤨
Let’s take a closer look at five actionable strategies.
✅ KNOW YOUR PURPOSE
Before you jump into the world of Instagram, ask yourself: Why are you here?
Your purpose is your foundation.
Knowing your purpose isn’t just about setting long-term goals but also about making daily decisions on Instagram.
For example, you might see an Instagram trend that’s fun and flashy, but does it serve your community?
Does it reflect your mission as a therapist?
If not, it might be one of those “shiny objects” pulling you off track.
Always come back to your purpose—it’s the anchor that keeps you focused amid distractions.
💡 Pro Tip: Write down your purpose and keep it visible. This will remind you to stay aligned when you’re tempted to explore the latest trends.
✅ GOALS = LIGHTHOUSE
Without goals, it’s easy to get swept up in whatever is “new and exciting.”
While it might be tempting to experiment with every new Instagram feature (hello, AI filters or trending sound clips!), these distractions can lead you in too many directions, preventing you from evaluating what’s truly working for your audience.
Your goals should be specific and measurable.
For instance, instead of saying, “I want to grow my Instagram,” aim for something concrete, like “I want to increase my follower count by 10% over the next three months” or “I want to boost engagement on my posts by 15%.”
When you’ve set your goals, use them as a filter.
Before jumping on a new trend or trying out a shiny new feature, ask yourself, Will this help me get closer to my goal?
If the answer is no, it’s time to re-evaluate.
Staying focused on your goals ensures that your efforts are intentional, data-driven, and not reactionary.
Plus, give each new strategy enough time to bear fruit.
Shiny Object Syndrome becomes problematic when we pivot too quickly, without gathering enough insights.
Just because something didn’t “blow up” immediately doesn’t mean it wasn’t valuable.
Review your performance periodically, allowing your goals to act as a consistent guide rather than chasing fleeting opportunities.
💡 Pro Tip: Break down your goals into smaller steps to keep track of your progress. Celebrate each milestone!
✅ STAY INFORMED
It’s critical to stay informed about industry trends and updates on Instagram, but there’s a fine line between staying current and feeling overwhelmed. 😵
As a mental health professional, your credibility also depends on being aware of shifts in both social media and the mental health field. However, chasing after every new development can easily scatter your focus.
The key is to FIND BALANCE.
Subscribe to a handful of trusted sources—whether they’re Instagram newsletters, mental health organizations, or thought leaders in your field.
This will help you stay updated without drowning in unnecessary noise.
Being selective about the trends you follow allows you to focus on what’s most relevant to your business, your clients, and the community you're building.
Not every trend is worth pursuing, even if it’s generating buzz. Instead, focus on the ones that align with your niche and long-term strategy.
If you’re a trauma therapist, for instance, perhaps you’re better served by using Instagram for educational content on trauma recovery, rather than participating in viral dance challenges.😅
💡 Pro Tip: Set aside dedicated “research” time each week to catch up on trends, but limit it so it doesn’t become overwhelming.
✅ SET BOUNDARIES
As mental health professionals, you know the importance of boundaries in all aspects of life, and social media is no exception!
Instagram can easily consume hours of your day if you’re not careful, leading to burnout and emotional/mental fatigue.
Consider creating designated “Instagram hours” when you engage with your audience, post content, and check DMs.
This could be a specific time of day, such as 30 minutes in the morning or an hour in the afternoon.
Outside of these hours, resist the temptation to scroll endlessly.
It’s also helpful to limit the number of platforms you’re actively engaging on.
Trying to maintain a presence on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn might sound appealing, but it often leads to scattered focus and lower-quality interactions.
Choose one or two platforms that resonate most with your target audience, and focus your energy there; unless you already have a trusted team to help you!
💡 Pro Tip: Use Instagram’s built-in tools, like “activity reports,” to track your usage and set reminders when it’s time to step away.
✅ DON'T FORGET YOURSELF
One of the most important lessons in both therapy and business is that you can’t pour from an empty cup.
As a therapist or coach building a community on Instagram, your own mental health and well-being must also come first.
The pressure to post frequently, engage with comments, and stay relevant can become overwhelming if self-care isn’t prioritized.
Take breaks when needed, even from social media. A digital detox or simply scheduling regular downtime from Instagram can help you recharge.
✅ Remember, the authenticity of your online presence is tied to your well-being.
When you’re stressed or burnt out, it will come through in your posts and interactions.
Taking care of yourself will not only benefit you personally but will also enhance your connection with your audience.
💡 Pro Tip: Schedule “off-screen” activities like journaling, creative hobbies, or nature walks to stay grounded and refreshed. You know this better than I do! 😉
Here’s another gentle reminder for you:
Navigating Instagram as a mental health professional can be both exciting and overwhelming.
📌 By recognizing the dangers of Shiny Object Syndrome and implementing strategies to stay focused, you can build an authentic online presence that supports both your practice and personal well-being.
Staying true to your purpose, setting clear goals, staying informed without getting distracted, and establishing healthy boundaries will help you avoid SOS and build a meaningful community.
Most importantly, remember to take care of yourself. Your mental health is the foundation of your work, both offline and online.
Keep your lighthouse in sight, pour into your cup, and let your presence shine from a place of focus and intention.
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Cheering you on,
MJ 💕
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