By guest contributor Maddy Hague. Photography by Leslie Shewrig for Decor8.

Today’s post focuses on an issue you’re sure to encounter once you start taking on new projects. Whether you are a contributor, or are leading a project, balancing your schedule can be the hardest part. Here are some time management skills I’ve learned over the years that can help you manage a large plate of work:

Keep a calendar
This sounds pretty straightforward, but keeping an organized calendar is absolutely vital. I keep separate colors on my calendar for each blog or project, and block out time for each task involved in the blog/project. You will be amazed at your productivity if you stick to your schedule. If you go over the time allotted, move on to the next task on your calendar. Simply add it to your calendar in a future spot where you can complete it.

By guest contributor Helena Swyter. Photography by Chuck Wendig.

WHO?

If you earn income from self-employment (i.e. in any way other than as an employee of someone else), you are required to pay estimated taxes each quarter. Since you are self-employed, the responsibility of setting aside part of your income for taxes falls to you.

In most cases, you need to pay estimated taxes if, after subtracting withholdings and refundable credits, you expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes for the year. To avoid penalties, the sum of your four quarterly payments should be at least 90% of what you actually owe for the current year, or 100% of what you owed the previous year. Special rules apply for high income taxpayers. A high income taxpayer is someone whose adjusted gross income for 2011 was $150,000 or higher if married and filing jointly. If this is you, it is best to consult your tax professional.

In the end, it is your responsibility to make sure your tax situation is correct. Everyone’s tax situation can be different, so be sure you know the facts as they pertain to you.

By Victoria Hudgins. Photography by Laura Marii.

Let’s talk about your relationship with your advertisers. They occupy a space on your sidebar, and sometimes get a feature post – but most people only think of them when it is time to renew. It’s important to think of your advertisers as partners – a mutually beneficial relationship. You have the traffic that advertisers want their brand in front of, and they have the money to help you continue to do what you love. When it is working right, everyone should be happy in this relationship. The key, as in any relationship, is putting in the necessary work to keep it healthy.

The center of every healthy relationship is communication. Some of us know this all too well. We have read books on communication, gone to seminars, and even seen professional help! When it comes to your partnership with your advertisers, when, how and what should you communicate?

 By guest contributor Erin Loechner. Images by J.Crew.

New to the conference scene and not sure what to don? Rest assured that no matter what you wear to Alt, you’ll be greeted with loads of smiles, incredible wisdom – and yes…stripes. But if you’re unsure whether you’d like to rock your favorite sequined shoes (do it!) or floral pants (do it!), here’s my take on attire absolutes!:

 1. Absolutely be comfortable.

Rule #1 – comfort first. If you know that rad lace top you just scored is going to make you itch like mad during your favorite panel, leave it at home. Instead, opt for the most comfortable items in your closet, as you’ll likely be sporting them for 8 hours+.

Pro Tip: Consider dressing up your favorite comfy top with a structured pencil skirt.You’ll feel polished and look professional without seeming stuffy or under-dressed.

2. Absolutely be confident.

This is a close second to rule #1, because you must, must, must wear something that makes you feel 100% out-of-this-world (even if that includes spanx!). If you’re a first time blogging/media/design conference attendee, your nerves will likely be in full force. Why not tone them down by knowing you look fantastic? Look great = feel great. It’s a motto for a reason. So if your go-to outfit for confidence building is classic and casual? Do it. In my book, confidence is always the best accessory, so make yourself shine in whatever outfit you can.

Pro Tip: A turtleneck and tortoise shell glasses makes for such a studious, approachable look, don’t you think? Consider this look if you’re staying at a nearby hotel and need something warm to carry you through the commute!