2. When you are taking a solo and not "comping" (accompanying) for another soloist you should play your chord voicings in your left hand, so that right hand can be free to improvise, do fills, double left hand, add extensions, etc.

3. The range of your voicings is also very important. A good rule of thumb to remember when voicing your chords, is to always try to voice your chords around middle C. Keeping your voicings around middle C will sound full and clear. Limits of approximately an octave above or below will assure best results by preventing voicing from assuming a quality of thinness or muddiness.

6. Create a detailed plan to achieve your goal. Let’s say your goal is to eliminate clutter in your home. But how will you start when clutter is overwhelming? It may be helpful to break large goals into intermediate, manageable steps. Make a list of each area you need to tackle. Then break each area into even smaller segments that can be tackled easily. For instance, set time aside to clean out old clothes, then to organize sweaters, then to throw out old shoes, and finally arrange clothing by color or type. Don't forget to specify a time limit for accomplishing each of smaller steps. Before you know it, larger goal will have been met.

7. Recognize that you may encounter obstacles. Most people give up on their goals because they run into some type of obstacle along way. Obstacles can be internal or external. Examples of internal obstacles include negative self-talk, limiting beliefs and discipline issues. Some external obstacles are lack of time, money or resources. Know in advance what hurdles you may have to conquer.

8. Identify a plan of action to overcome obstacles. If you are trying to give up chocolate (I would never try this!), what are you going to do when you get a craving for chocolate, or when all your friends are chowing down on chocolate cake? Maybe your plan would be to carry a sweet substitute with you at all times. Or perhaps you could involve yourself in a fun activity when urge strikes. If your obstacles are tougher and you need more support, consider hiring a life coach to help you work through your blocks.

9. Enlist support of an accountability partner. As you work towards your goals, it can be very helpful to have someone in your life to be your support partner. Consider asking your partner or friend to help you stick to goals you have set. Use this person when you are struggling and set up a plan to check in regularly with him/her. As a coach, I have privilege of trading coaching services with my peers. My coach helps me achieve my goals, overcome any obstacles, and celebrate my success.

10. Celebrate success along way. One of most important things you can do for yourself is celebrate your small successes as you work towards your larger goals. Don’t wait until end to reward yourself. You deserve to be recognized for your efforts and your commitment, especially when your goals take a long time to achieve. If you don’t celebrate on your journey, you will lose your motivation. So celebrate, celebrate, and celebrate!

Achieving your goals can be tough work sometimes, but it is also very rewarding. If you fall off your path, remember you can always get back on. It’s okay to take a few detours. It’s also okay to take a break to rest. Don’t beat yourself up or give up hope. Start again where you fell down and before you know it, you will be a pro at accomplishing your goals.