These are not exactly secrets, but this list should help you.
1. Learn to conceptually understand electron flow, and sterics. Get a stick and ball kit if at all possible, it's useful through most of orgo 1, less so in 2.
2. The Whiteboard is your friend, use it, different color markers and all.
3. Do all the assigned practice problems, and then do more from your textbook, some of these will look weird and you might not be able to do them, or even be totally responsible for everything in them. THATS OK. The key here is exposure to the mechanics of pushing electrons around (see 1).
4. When in doubt about remembering ANYTHING, make flashcards. Don't buy them, don't use someone else's cards, make them. The process of making them and figuring out how they should look to work most effectively will help you remember.
5. Orgo is and should be a time consuming class, you should be spending at least a few hours studying/practicing outside of class for every hour in class.
6. Get copies of any lecture slides the professor uses if you can, reference them when you study but not when doing problems. YOu have a limited number of problems to expose yourself to that will fit the mould of the class, so don't waste them by using notes with most of them.
Organic Chemistry is not easy exactly, but it is perfectly manageable, and even enjoyable with the right attitude. Stay positive and be confident.
