"This year will be different," we optimistically tell ourselves. Like many small business owners, each January, we begin the task of trying to get organized (again). We gather all the necessary tools - file folders, shredders, enormous garbage cans, appointment books, and computer software. We attempt to purge files and cabinets, add new shelving, create checklists, record deadlines, gather tax data, and generally de-clutter the piles that have accumulated on every surface of our offices and encroached into our workspaces.



Alas, our good intentions never make it past Valentine's Day. The piles return, the To Be Filed slot overflows once again, and that darned To Do List is nowhere to be found. It's enough to make any entrepreneur run and hide under their desk!

Many of us consider ourselves organized. Quite often we multitask, with the promise that doing more than one thing at a time will allow us to get more done. Yet what we often don't realize is that we're wasting time running from this to that to the other, unable to stay focused. The big stuff suffers at the hands of the many little tasks. The items that do get checked off, often take much longer than they should have.

In most cases, this disorganization comes down to these four things:

1) Lack of proper time management

2) Clutter in the workspace is distracting

3) Interruptions wreak havoc on staying focused.

4) The To Do List is not prioritized in order of importance.

Right now, you might be saying to yourself, "Well I know what the problem is, but how do I fix it?" Well, I myself am no expert, but I did find help from some terrific websites. Each of these sites has loads of resources to get you started and keep you on track. So here goes...

My Top 5 Websites to Help You Get Organized This Year (And Stay Organized)

5. MizLizonBiz.com - This site has a free test to help you determine your organizing style

4. TimeThoughts.com - They offer a free mini course and newsletter to help better manage your time

3. I NeedMoreTime.com - Offers tips and articles plus a free time management tips booklet

2. GetOrganizedNow.com - Offers a free idea-pak to help you get organized

1. OnlineOrganizing.com/ExpertAdvice.asp - Full of tips & techniques professional organizers use; be sure to check out the Clickable Office

Now repeat after me, "this year will be different!" And this time believe it!