1. First, come to a conclusion about what it is that you want. You obviously have to know your goal before you accomplish it. Do you have a clear idea of what you're going after? Hazy concepts about some day succeeding in the music industry or with your independent music can lead to useless actions. Detail your goal, such as, I want to meet X number of music contacts this month.



2.Then, write all these down. Don't let them float aimlessly around your head. If you put them in writing, you are more likely to commit to them. If you want to meet 10 music contacts or book 3 gigs then write precisely that.

3.Don't underestimate the power of a deadline. Deadlines have a way of motivating people to get it done. Setting time limits for yourself and your advancement in the music industry is an awesome way to make yourself achieve them.

4.Here's the fun part! Write down what you will achieve from these goals. Will you turn a bigger profit from the sale of your independent music? Will you meet more people and end up socializing more? What will you gain from these goals?

5.Anticipate or plan for setbacks. Hey, we would never learn from our mistakes if we never failed. There will always be bumps in any road in the music industry. Whether it be unreturned calls from music contacts, rearranged schedules, mistakes at a show, it doesn't matter. Pick up, move on and learn a lesson.

6.Identify people or things that can help you achieve your goals. Think about it, club agents, bookers, managers, media outlets, artists etc...The music industry is all about who knows who and who can help who so don't be afraid to use these music contacts to accomplish your goals.

7.Once you have written all this down, the make a small list of your preliminary goals. For example, if your goal is go get your independent music heard then the first thing you would need to do is get the songs ready and get them recorded. Schedule time at a studio. Whatever the small steps are, get them out of the way first.

Now, you have made your list so you should have a clear and precise idea of where you are and where you want to go. You know how to get there and who can help you. Now all you have to do is take action. Get your independent music heard or meet some awesome music contacts. Where ever you believe you need to be, get there!