Preparing for the Certified Management Accountant exam can seem like quite a daunting task.

With fear and intimidation holding you back it can be hard to fuel the right kind of motivation that you will need to keep you on track throughout the study and preparation process. Not to worry because I’ve got some great tips and advice to keep you on track.

Keep a Positive Attitude 

The first step in taking on the CMA is to maintain a positive attitude and start building up your confidence.

You need to start the preparation process believing you will pass the exam. You can do this by creating a study plan that boosts your confidence as you work your way through the units.

Make sure you incorporate challenges that you can overcome to build that confidence and keep your goals in sight. It’s amazing how far a little bit of positivity will take you.

Be Realistic 

The CMA requires some serious time management and self discipline skills. In order to allot an appropriate amount of study time and you will definitely need to make some sacrifices in your personal life. It will all be worth it in the end when you walk out passing the exam.

Once you have found sufficient time in your schedule. create yourself an organized weekly study plan. Design it in a way that builds off of each lesson so that you are less likely to procrastinate. Doing it this way will also give you time to digest fundamentals before building on them.

The only way a study plan will work is if you stick to it. Try rewarding yourself for staying on track. Don’t be too hard on yourself and remember to give yourself at least one day off of studying during the week. Like training in fitness, your muscles need rest days; so does your brain.

Tips for Staying on Track 

The hardest part of reaching any goal is staying on track, especially when you have what appears like a lot of time.

Get your friends and family on board with your goal and make sure they understand how important achieving it is for you. You will shock yourself with how easy it is to come up with excuses and give in to all of the opportunities that will conveniently coincide with a study session along the way. Don’t do it! 

Understand that your time is valuable and you need to treat each study session as if it were a very important appointment. When it comes to your own personal success it has to come from within, there are no limitations only excuses. You can do it.

There are several other resources you can utilize to make getting through the CMA a much more enjoyable and attainable experience. Acknowledge your weaknesses and work to strengthen them. With the right tools, anyone can pass on the first try.

What else are you struggling with? Let me know by dropping a comment below. I’m here you guide you to exam SUCCESS! 🙂

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Hi, I’m Nathan Liao (aka the CMA Coach)! For the last 10 years, over 82,000 accounting and finance pros came knocking at my door seeking guidance and help. If you’re also aiming to conquer the CMA exam on your very first try—without wasting away time or money—you’ve found your ultimate guide. Dive in deeper to discover more about me and the dedicated team that powers CMA Exam Academy. Click here and let’s embark on this journey together!