I put aside time from leisure activities and put a lot of things in my life on hold to create sufficient time for my business. I'd say if you're in this for long haul like I am, you've done likewise.

But now that you've developed tunnel vision and found more time for your business, how do you get most from that time? The best thing I've found is what best business people both on and off Internet do: set, meet, and maintain goals towards success.

If you're wondering what this is all about or how to go about it, here's what to do.

Set goals at three levels and try to stick to them. The three levels are long-term, mid-term, and short-term goals.

Long-term goals reflect how much you'd like to increase your income and how soon. Make those decisions and memorize them. Put your business on a time line and follow it day by day.

In order to avoid disaster that could put you out of business, be careful in selecting business opportunities you're going to pursue. Don't bite off more than you can chew by joining every affiliate plan presented to you.

Limit yourself to no more than three at beginning. Be very selective, making sure that those you're involved in balance each other, hold to a specific theme, or belong to one business type.

The long-term goals determine mid-term ones. How much do you have to make per week, per month, every six months, to achieve long-term goals?

After answering these questions make up your time line, using a sheet of paper. Draw a line at left all way down paper. Divide line into twelve months with hash marks. Label hash marks by month.

I had a brimful of musical information and skill to impart, but most of it meant zilch until I learned to get along in classroom. Many tools, tips, and tricks in dealing with school age children came to me after trial and error.

In home-based marketing, especially on Internet, same idea holds true. Take as many Internet courses as you like. Visit as many sites as you wish to experience how others have succeeded. In end, it's what actually happens to you as a result of your own effort that's going to be of most value.

Don't be afraid or ashamed to be perceived as a "newbie". We all start out as such, even if to some degree more or less. Reach out now to someone who can take you around block - show what's worked for them. You'll be glad you did.

There's a lot to be gained from soaking in Internet courses. And, yes, devour those ezine articles, scour newest ebooks available, and all rest. Make most of it. Learn something every day.

But above all, look for individuals who will take time to support you. Let them be your mentors. Be their most eager students.

Remember, too, that not everything to be gained on Internet in a home-based business is free or easy. Too many of us are desperate for quick sales when we set up our businesses. We're sick and tired of 9 to 5 grind and want instant profitability to rescue us from our woes.