Here is a great rule for Success: Think on Paper

Rule 1: Decide exactly what you want
Rule 2: Write it down
Rule 3: Set a deadline on your goal
Rule 4: Make a list of everything that you can think of that you are going to have to do to achieve your goal.
Rule 5: Organize the list into a plan
Rule 6: Take action on your plan immediately
Rule 7: Resolve to do something every single day that moves you toward your major goal.

from the book: Eat That Frog