Simple tools bring big rewards. I learned this technique long ago from my coach and have been using it ever since. When you feel overwhelmed with too many tasks and can't seem to get a handle on some projects, try this:

1. Get a timer and set it for 15 minutes.

2. For that 15 minutes, focus on ONE task.

Example: You need to input some data on your computer. Turn off your phone, shut down email and remove all distractions. Set your timer for 15 minutes and go to work! When it goes off, you put your work aside and take 5 minutes to reorganize, tidy up, return a phone or check your email. If there's time left, stretch, take a quick break and decide if you want to set your timer again to complete the task or move on.

This works for everything from housecleaning to bill paying. It stops the multitasking madness and get things done more quickly. If your task is to make a deposit, don't get distracted by the pile of mail on your desk. Allow yourself to be totally present to the one project.

Many of my clients love to beat the clock and are amazed at how much can actually be done in such a short time. They say they spent more time lamenting the project or task that required minimal time. How many times have you found yourself avoiding something that ended up taking 5 minutes? Instead, grab your timer and get moving! Action is a wonderful way to break the cycle of avoidance and annoyance.

This simple technique helps you complete a project, feel more focused and can be done anytime you feel overwhelmed or frustrated with life. And it's only 15 minutes--everyone has 15 minutes to spare...

1. Recognize your WHYS

Getting organized isn't new. It's not just about having more time or money. Essentially, it's about your purpose and intentions. It's about gaining an understanding of yourself, your environment and your life. Why do you want to get organized or clear clutter? What would you have room for if you cleared thoughts out of your mind that are no longer serving you?

2. Clear One Physical Space Every Day

Physical organizing, or movement, helps energize the thinking part of organizing. Begin each day by clearing one physical space (even if you just move the stuff). Then, step back and take it in. Enjoy the feeling of mental clarity, while not worrying about what to do with the stuff. If you can clear one small physical space then you can clear space anywhere, including your mind.

3. Free Your Mind

Think of your mind like a hard disk-it can only hold so much. We often keep thoughts that make us feel less then spectacular. Work through the piles of your mind, just as you do your desk. Getting your thoughts, feelings, memories and plans in order makes clearing the physical spaces much easier. Guaranteed!

4. Hone Your Decision Making Skills

Organizing is mostly about having clarity which enables you to make decisions swiftly. Our self-talk can inhibit this. The process of organizing becomes light and fast when you free your mind because your decision-making is crisp and clear. Become aware of what things are easiest for you to decide on, and then expand your base by easing into more challenging decisions.

5. Spend 15 Minutes Planning

Planning is the cornerstone to reaching goals. For every 5 minutes you spend planning, you save an hour of floundering. For each day, week, and months spend 15 minutes planning the day, week and month. Using a timer for this exercise will help you stay on track.