September seems to have just flown by. Working a full-time day job, keeping up with my accessory design business and trying to have a personal life proved quite the challenge this month. Before I realized it, the first of the fall shows was upon me and I was scrambling to be ready. I was just not working SMART, as the time management guru’s call it. While I wouldn't wish my September on anyone, I know I am not the only one out there who could use a refresher course in goal setting and time management.

Manage your time like a Superhero
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SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Rewarding, and Timely

Set Specific Goals

Set up goals that are specific and you will have a clearer path to envisioning where you will end up. The clearer the picture, the easier it is to visualize what you need to be doing. Without a clear vision, you can't always see where you’re going or where you expect to end up.

Create Measurable Goals

One of the best ways to measure success involves tracking the number of items made and/or actual sales of items. Once you've set specific goals, figure out the best way to measure them and your progress toward them.

Set Attainable Goals

An attainable goal is a goal for which you see a realistic path to achievement, and reasonable odds that you get there. This does not mean that the lower you aim the more likely you reach success. Goals that work best have a challenge in them, they are chosen to be as ambitious as possible, but still reachable.

Write it down and keep track of progress
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Know What's Rewarding About Completing Your Goals

A goal is rewarding when you have clear reasons why you want to reach it. Have specific reasons and expected reward in writing or depicted visually. Imagine how you are going to feel when the goal is reached. Then, if you get stuck and don't feel motivated, read your reasons and look at the pictures.

Make Your Goals Timely

Having a specific timeline is one of the best ways to ensure you reach for your goals. A deadline is also your protection from procrastination and unreasonable perfectionism.

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