The Paper Chase: Taking Control of the Paper in Your Home or Office

GATHER SUPPLIES

First, gather file folders, hanging file folders, a felt-tip pen and large garbage (or recycling) bags or boxes. Every household or office also needs an appropriate type of file cabinet or box; the size will depend on the amount of papers you must keep. Make a commitment to work on this project for at least one uninterrupted hour. Enlist a friend or professional organizer if you need help or encouragement.

Determine where to start: Start on desktops, countertops or urgently-needed surfaces. Your most recently-received papers will be here. Resist the urge to start with the papers on the floor or stuffed in paper bags or boxes.

IDENTIFY

Determine the types of papers you receive on a regular basis as you start sorting. Create a neat pile of the papers on the surface you're working on. Pick up the top one. Ask yourself, "What is this? Do I need to keep it? Do I need to take action on this? Or do I just need to file it in case I need to retrieve it later?" Toss as much as you can.

SORT

As you encounter papers that need to elicit an "action," put them in a folder labeled "TO DO" (i.e., class to sign up for, RSVP to send, etc.)

As you encounter bills to pay, separate them out by putting them in a folder labeled "BILLS TO PAY." (Try a bright red folder.)

As you encounter papers that simply need to be read and then disposed of (magazine articles you clipped, newsletters, etc.), put them in a folder labeled "TO READ." Tip: Take this folder with you when you'll be waiting (e.g. doctor's office, dentist, bank, mechanic, kids' soccer practice, etc.)

As you encounter papers that need to be discussed with your significant other or co-worker, put them in a folder labeled "DISCUSS WITH XXXXXXX."

Everything else should be either thrown out or filed neatly according to subject. Sort into simple categories that make sense to you. For example, some home categories might include: medical, pets, taxes, hobbies, outdoor activities, utility bills, car, home improvement, credit cards, insurance, 401K, education, projects.

CONTINUE AND TOSS

Work on getting all surfaces clear of papers using the above techniques. Then, conquer the remaining piles (if any) from the floor or elsewhere. You should find these piles contain more papers for your "toss" category. Remember, only 20% of the things we file will ever be retrieved again. When in doubt, throw it out!

MAINTAIN

From here on out, manage paper daily. Sort mail immediately. Toss out junk mail. Put remainder into "TO READ," "TO DO," or "BILLS TO PAY" folders. (Keep these folders in an easily-accessible spot, i.e., the kitchen.) Make time every week to file everything else in your filing cabinet or box.