Success does not always come to the most intelligent or talented people. It doesn't always come to the hardest working or most creative, either. The truth is that success is the result of persistence, focus, and organization. It's all about how well we manage our time.

I can almost hear your sigh now. For lots of you, getting organized or becoming more focused and efcient is like those other New Year's resolutions -- losing weight or getting fit -- that are in our rearview mirror now. We've been there, tried them, and aren't crazy about the results. Sure, you have your reasons for avoiding getting organized, pretty good ones, too. I'll bet at least one of these applies to you: • You're too busy. It takes time to get organized • Too many people are demanding your time • You've started organizing but just can't follow through • You're not sure how to go about it • It's too much trouble • You're naturally untidy • You just can't get motivated • And so on