Remember, networking can be very rewarding, not only in terms of business outcomes, saved time, and valuable information, but also in personal satisfaction because it involves helping others reach their goals. And that’s a great feeling!

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DESIGN YOUR IDEAL WEEK You can design your ideal week, but it’s important to have a plan. Plan three different types of days: productive (work), practical (family) and play (yourself). Remember, you’ll need to be flexible. A productive day involves concentrating on moneymaking activities. If you’re in sales, it’s when you’re face to face with customers, or making presentations to a prospect. Plan on practical days in office to catch up on phone calls, write proposals, organize your office, and do maintenance for your business - it’s much more effective. Then plan a play day. Block out at least 24 hours and don’t do any work - no voicemail, computer or paperwork. Just time for you!

SAY NO! In order to have a great life, you have to learn to say “no” - even when you really want to say “yes.” Ask yourself throughout day, “Is this best use of my time, right now?”

UNDER-PROMISE, OVER-DELIVER Often in our desire to please people, we tend to over-promise. An example: You’re asked to provide a report or proposal and you promise to deliver it in five days. You put yourself under pressure and it turns out that some information you need is not available. You complete project in six days and no one is happy. If you know you can do it in seven days, promise it in 10. Leave buffer time for obstacles. When you deliver project a day or two early, you look like a hero and pressure has been minimal.

PRACTICE EXTREME SELF-CARE You must take care of yourself in order to be successful and to have a great life. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be effective in business or in your personal life. Block out time on your calendar and plan on ways to nurture yourself.

DREAM IN A DRAWER Do you have a dream? Is there something you would really like to do, but there’s never enough time? Most of us have a dream in our drawer. Take it out and take first step to making it a reality. Hire a coach or have a friend help you with a plan. Set up steps of accountability and make that dream come true!