In this age of information overload, you’re inundated with new ideas and concepts. The overload, however, isn’t the challenge. The challenge is what to do with the information.

When a “new” idea or concept comes your way, it’s easy to give it serious consideration, even thinking it’s the “silver bullet.” However, you soon realize you haven’t used the previous twelve silver bullets that were supposed to solve your problems. As a result, the new information is just another distraction, further confusing your mission and focus. .

This is particularly true for the business professional looking at that hot new sales and marketing system, or another “great idea”. There’s nothing wrong with these, but if you’re not using what you have, what makes you think these will be any better?

New systems can be useful; however, you have enough ideas in your head, on paper or loaded on your computer to be successful. You don’t need another program. Using what you have and acting on what you already know is the order of the day.

Here’s what you can do to avoid the pitfalls of new idea distractions:

1. Clarify your vision and mission. It helps to know where you’re going.
2. Set your priorities. If you know your priorities, it’s easier to support them.
3. Use the programs and systems that you have. They are likely to work.
4. Don’t buy another marketing, management or organization program or system.
5. Do what’s important. Take actions that support your mission.

Focusing your action on using what you’ve learned, rather than chasing the latest and greatest program, will make you successful. Otherwise, it’s just an excuse to avoid productive action. By applying what you know, you save time, money and energy, and are more efficient in getting results.