I also find that it helps a lot if you get everything turned in early! My first time around (last cycle), I got severely delayed by the transcript verification process, so I didn't finish most of my secondaries until the end of August. As a result, I held on to some for too long, and some of them weren't very well-written or personal. I feel that writing in a more personal and refined style this cycle has helped me build a stronger case for myself. I think so far my cycle has been going much better than last cycle (2 II's total last cycle, both from in-state public schools).
EDIT: Also, to first time traditional applicants, you have no idea how awesome it feels to take a break from schooling, even though I know that I didn't feel that way a year ago. I can actually appreciate the leaves changing color with a cozy cup of coffee or nice autumn craft beer without worrying about assignments or tests.