I can't believe that this is the last Sunday of the year! Where did the year go? I have no idea but it's this time of year that I begin to think even more about organizing and prepping for the new year. We have a million things on our plate but here are the top 5 things that are an essential that will help you in feeling that you're getting your year off to a good start!

5. Think about where you want to be: Whatever took place over the last year has definitely allowed you to learn new things about yourself and what you want from your life. Did you realize that something that you wanted may not have been an interest or that you found a new skill that you would like to continue on with whether it's full time with a company, for yourself or as a freelance opportunity? Think about your skill sets and make sure that you're utilizing them as this could be an untapped area. If you've already begun, continue to work on it to see where it takes you! Whatever you do, make sure that you are putting it into action and not just in the "what if" phase.

4. De-cluttering is essential: Whether it's cleaning out your closet, home, drawers or randomness in your life. You have to think about what you're using and what needs to stay. This year, I found that my de-cluttering involved various projects that kept me busy but were not supportive of the goals that I had for myself. It was a tough process as I love being involved but if 2010 is meant to be successful I have to be efficient and focused! In addition to focus, and de-cluttering, think about whether you have a set space to do your work if you work from home. By making sure that you have separate spheres your home will still be a place of tranquility while also having a room or corner that is deemed for work!

3. Reward yourself:

We work hard whether it's for others or ourselves. Make sure you have rewards whether it's allowing yourself time to watch a show (you know I love so many reality shows but I take about 3 hours a week to watch them), taking a walk or planning a vacation (Loews in SoBe here I come - one of my fave places). This is essential as we all need time away. Make sure that you put in some personal time for yourself.

2. Mingling is key: Networking is such a key element to whatever you're doing whether you're doing philanthropy, starting a business or wanting to meet more people in your neighborhood. The simple act of engaging and stepping outside of your everyday and talking with others opens up a whole new world while also carrying your message when you can't be there. I can't say how many opportunities I have had that began with me attending an event for Kitten Lounge, meeting someone who worked at a firm and later receiving a call based on a referral (this happens when I don't even ask someone to keep me in their thoughts for something). In addition, it's always important to maintain and increase your network in general. If you feel that you have been out of the loop lately, now is a good time to get back in or to begin if you have yet to start!

1.Keep it Organized:

Now you guys know that I'm all about being organized. I have my various Google Calendars which feed into my phone and I have tons of journals for various projects. I recently found something that is essential for every person who has a lot that they are tackling. My Agenda is an essential for the new year. On a recent trip to Kate's Paperie (if you don't have your own stationary, get some), I found something called MomAgenda. I thought it was a great calendar; however, I'm not a mom. Before I left the table, I noticed that there was a MyAgenda which appeared to be from the same company as MomAgenda. This book had me at the mauve color and the fact that when I opened it, each week is broken out by each day but also sub divided. For me, I have broken it up as my personal week, there is a section for Kitten Lounge (I have a lot of events to go to and I manage my Editorial Calendar here), I have included my new jewelry line here and I have my freelancing sections here as well!

I'm all about digital but it's nice to have things written down as a backup so in addition to your calendar, you can have information for your lifestyle from important numbers, dates, events and more. This is a must book to have and you'll definitely want to check out the site to get additional items that will enhance your book. An unorganized girl is not someone that's prepared for the madness of 2010! Take some time to think about these 5 areas and if you haven't thought about them, make sure you do as they're essential.