If you have a specific answer, pick a specific date to take that next step.

If not, open your calendar

• Find two one-hour time slots, two or three days apart, during the portion of your day when you do your best thinking.

• Schedule an appointment for each time slot. Title the appointment: “Next Step.”

• Now, move one week ahead in your calendar. Find another available hour during your prime productive time. Again, enter your “Next Step” appointment.

• Now, schedule a “Next Step” appointment each week for the next six weeks.

Nice job. You have created a meaningful and doable commitment to your professional development.

'Next Step’ thinking and action is about advocacy. So be an advocate for yourself and others.