By Jessica Hoelzel
Too much paper weighs us down. It is especially burdensome when it overtakes desk or kitchen counter surfaces, and worse, the bedroom. Each piece of paper we receive asks us to make a decision about what to do with it.
Keep your paper burden from being too heavy by pitching it in the recycle bin the first chance you get. Instead of setting a piece paper aside, to figure out what to do with it later, force yourself to make a decision right away. Does it go in the “To Do” or “To File” pile? If you don’t need it, pitch it in the recycle bin.
Showing posts with label filing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label filing. Show all posts
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Thursday, December 1, 2011
21 Quick Clutter Fixes For Your Home
By Jessica Hoelzel
REDUCE the amount of STUFF you have and LIVE GREEN
Keep your eye on Day to Day Feng Shui for each post in my blog series: 21 Quick Clutter Fixes: ways to lighten your load by cutting out clutter bit-by-bit throughout your home. Plus, solutions that keep the environment top-of-mind, so you keep your waste-impact down.
Less Clutter = Healthy Home
Less Waste = Healthy World
In the Office
15. Create an Active Desktop Filing System. In an earlier post I discussed eliminating the clutter of paper we don’t need. In this post, I’ll tell you about a solution for the paper you do need, that’s just lying around, waiting to get piled on top of, forgotten, even lost.
Create an Active Desktop Filing System
Let’s break down exactly what this is…
Active means that it’s for things you need to have easy access to, to take “action” on: To Do, To Pay, To Call, Event Notices or other items pending. (“Pending” meaning not done yet.)This is NOT the place for things that are to be filed for reference (“Inactive” files like bank statements or tax documents).
Desktop means that it sits on top of your desk, kitchen counter, or other workspace. They key idea being that it’s easily accessible – at your fingertips. A container with an open top is the best, but if you want it to be less conspicuous, and blend in with your décor, there are options with lids too. See specific product ideas below.
Filing means that 1) there are file folders involved and 2) you use these file folders to sort things out by category. So you can keep things separated, and keep then straight. (Less overwhelming. Orderly.) You can either just use hanging file folders, or tabbed folders with hanging, if you want to create subcategories within the categories.
System means that there’s a method, not madness. It may take getting used to (20 something days to form a habit) but once it becomes habit, it’s easy – second nature to keep up. It’s what you DO.
Product Ideas to Do It Yourself:
Silver Mesh Desktop File
Acrylic Desktop File
Bristol Desktop File (With Lid)
Environmentally-Friendly Bamboo Desktop File
OR – Get Organized INSTANTLY
With a Ready-Made Active Desktop Filing System
ONLY $36!
(plus shipping/handling)
It comes complete with:
Silver Mesh Desktop File Holder
10 Hanging File Folders
(labeled with: To Do, To Pay, Pending, To File, Activities, Events, Projects, Planning, Resources, Emergency Info)
30 Tabbed File Folders: 3 in each Hanging File Folder
(To Do includes one labeled with Urgent; To Pay includes one labeled with Urgent, one with Due 1st -15th, one with Due 16th-31st)
Order one for you, and one for a friend!
Save $10 when you buy 2 – 2 Active Desktop Filing Systems ONLY $62!!!
Both of you can GET ORGANIZED
Email me to place your order. Custom selections available at additional cost.
Hurry! $10 savings on 2 ends 1/31/12.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Create a “To File” Area for Papers
By Jessica Hoelzel
In my last post I was talking about how I got down to business and filed all my papers that were building up in my “to-file” folder. Do you have a “to-file” area? If not, establishing one could alleviate lots of paper that’s just lying around.
The first thing to do, to get control of paper clutter, though, is to alleviate the excess. For many people, half of the paper that arrives via US Mail is paper that can go directly in the recycling – ads, coupons, offers, catalogs. This type of paper should get chucked right in the bin. Don’t even think about letting it clutter up your countertops. If you glance at it then set it aside because you think “I may look at that later if I’m interested.” don’t. Only keep it if you are 100% sure you’re going to use it as a resource or take action on it.
And then, another ¼ is made up of paper that just needs to go right in your files – statements, correspondence, how much (or little) you currently have in your 401K, etc. Put a file tray, a box or decorative bowl near where you open your mail. All the things “to file” can go there.
It’s ok to let this type of paper stack up for a while, then file it later. Then, if you need to refer to a statement or record, you go two places: “to-file” area or the “file” area. It’s much easier to find something in one of those two places than mixed up with other random papers “around here somewhere…”
An easy suggestion to get control of the paper “situation” most people get overwhelmed with. Do you have a paper “situation” of your own? Let me know in the comments section of this blog. I’ll help you find an easy solution.
In my last post I was talking about how I got down to business and filed all my papers that were building up in my “to-file” folder. Do you have a “to-file” area? If not, establishing one could alleviate lots of paper that’s just lying around.
The first thing to do, to get control of paper clutter, though, is to alleviate the excess. For many people, half of the paper that arrives via US Mail is paper that can go directly in the recycling – ads, coupons, offers, catalogs. This type of paper should get chucked right in the bin. Don’t even think about letting it clutter up your countertops. If you glance at it then set it aside because you think “I may look at that later if I’m interested.” don’t. Only keep it if you are 100% sure you’re going to use it as a resource or take action on it.
And then, another ¼ is made up of paper that just needs to go right in your files – statements, correspondence, how much (or little) you currently have in your 401K, etc. Put a file tray, a box or decorative bowl near where you open your mail. All the things “to file” can go there.
It’s ok to let this type of paper stack up for a while, then file it later. Then, if you need to refer to a statement or record, you go two places: “to-file” area or the “file” area. It’s much easier to find something in one of those two places than mixed up with other random papers “around here somewhere…”
An easy suggestion to get control of the paper “situation” most people get overwhelmed with. Do you have a paper “situation” of your own? Let me know in the comments section of this blog. I’ll help you find an easy solution.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Embarrassed but Proud
I’m embarrassed to say that I’ve been procrastinating (avoiding, ignoring, refusing to acknowledge) my “To File” stack of papers for months now. It grew to approximately 2.5 inches thick, and at one point I did remove it from the file folder it was busting out of and moved it to a more expandable hanging file folder. Denial is an ugly thing, especially for a professional organizer.
When I decided “enough is enough, I must take action” yesterday, I spent the first few minutes of filing in astonishment. Some of the papers, I saw, dated back to April. Can it be true? Can I really have let it go like this?
YES. Factor in career changes, moving, new school, vacations, summer and there you have it. A backlog of papers that had to be dealt with. A big ol’ stack.
When I had all the papers filed, and emerged from my low point, I actually sat back and felt, well, proud. First of all, I had the files created already, so all I had to do was stick the papers in where they belonged. I’ve recently been blogging about simplifying your life, and setting up this system for my papers is one way I simplifed mine. Secondly, the filing had taken me less than an hour. In less than an hour’s time, I was feeling like parts of my life were back in order – finances, insurance, health care; my ducks are now in a row.
Now, the efficiency learning lesson here is that that backlog of papers was from about 6 months. If I had filed those papers monthly, like a good little organizer, it would have only taken me about 10 minutes a month. Instead of having to force myself to sit for one hour. If it’s uncomfortable for me, I know it’s torturous for you.
10 Minutes a Month. That’s all it takes. You can avoid having to sit that long. And avoid procrastination’s avoidance game, which really just keeps you from feeling good and living the life you want.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Chic & Easy Organizing - On the Cheap
By Jessica Hoelzel
Introducing a new series about bringing order and positive chi to your space, at low or no cost! Getting organized does not have to mean that you walk out of Target® or The Container Store® with a cartload of things you think “might” work to tame the chaos (after dropping $150 smackers). Avoid the temptation to grab things on a whim or a hope. Oftentimes, the last thing we need is to bring more “things” into our spaces. You do not have to spend a lot of money to create that sane sanctuary that you so crave, a place that reflects who you are and makes you feel at peace. Plus, less consumption is an environmentally-friendly way to be.
Check in regularly for the latest ideas. And if you have some of your own, please pass them along!
Idea #4
Small Items That Make a BIG Difference
Do you ever get overwhelmed when you go shopping for things to help you get organized? With all the products out there, which ones will give you the most bang for your buck? Here are a few pretty inexpensive little things that can go a long way to create order. Put your own fun, personalized spin on them.
1. File Folders
Sort out your papers, label and keep them at your fingertips in a tray, basket or desktop file holder. Choose designs that complement your décor and your personality.
OfficeMax® has some neat designer sets: http://www.officemax.com/catalog/search.jsp?freeText=designer+file+folders
2. Magazine Butlers
Not just for magazines – also perfect for keeping pocket folders with important papers handy. Also great for notebooks, or any reference guides printed in a magazine size. Choose a set of three in a design that makes you happy. Or mix it up with a set made up of different graphics or coverings. The less expensive ones are printed cardboard, a little more spendy are the heavy-duty cardboard ones covered in linen or faux leather. Label the outside. My favorite thing about them? They can either face front, making it easy to grab things, or turn them around and you hide what’s inside. Place on countertops, shelves or your desk.
The Container Store® has a variety: http://www.containerstore.com/shop/office/literatureOrganizers/magazines
3. Photo Boxes
Not just for photos either! These can be used in virtually every room of the house, for a multitude of small “things”. Think craft and art supplies, office supplies, random electronic components, greeting cards or sentimental items, makeup, whatever you can get to fit. And most come with a place to label. Separate your things out by category. Easily store and access what you need. Stack them in cupboards, in closets or on shelves.
Find a style that suits you at Michaels®: http://www.michaels.com/Recollections-Photo-Craft-Storage-Boxes/sb1441,default,pd.html?cgid=products-scrapbooking-storage&start=5
Introducing a new series about bringing order and positive chi to your space, at low or no cost! Getting organized does not have to mean that you walk out of Target® or The Container Store® with a cartload of things you think “might” work to tame the chaos (after dropping $150 smackers). Avoid the temptation to grab things on a whim or a hope. Oftentimes, the last thing we need is to bring more “things” into our spaces. You do not have to spend a lot of money to create that sane sanctuary that you so crave, a place that reflects who you are and makes you feel at peace. Plus, less consumption is an environmentally-friendly way to be.
Check in regularly for the latest ideas. And if you have some of your own, please pass them along!
Idea #4
Small Items That Make a BIG Difference
Do you ever get overwhelmed when you go shopping for things to help you get organized? With all the products out there, which ones will give you the most bang for your buck? Here are a few pretty inexpensive little things that can go a long way to create order. Put your own fun, personalized spin on them.
1. File Folders
Sort out your papers, label and keep them at your fingertips in a tray, basket or desktop file holder. Choose designs that complement your décor and your personality.
OfficeMax® has some neat designer sets: http://www.officemax.com/catalog/search.jsp?freeText=designer+file+folders
2. Magazine Butlers
Not just for magazines – also perfect for keeping pocket folders with important papers handy. Also great for notebooks, or any reference guides printed in a magazine size. Choose a set of three in a design that makes you happy. Or mix it up with a set made up of different graphics or coverings. The less expensive ones are printed cardboard, a little more spendy are the heavy-duty cardboard ones covered in linen or faux leather. Label the outside. My favorite thing about them? They can either face front, making it easy to grab things, or turn them around and you hide what’s inside. Place on countertops, shelves or your desk.
The Container Store® has a variety: http://www.containerstore.com/shop/office/literatureOrganizers/magazines
3. Photo Boxes
Not just for photos either! These can be used in virtually every room of the house, for a multitude of small “things”. Think craft and art supplies, office supplies, random electronic components, greeting cards or sentimental items, makeup, whatever you can get to fit. And most come with a place to label. Separate your things out by category. Easily store and access what you need. Stack them in cupboards, in closets or on shelves.
Find a style that suits you at Michaels®: http://www.michaels.com/Recollections-Photo-Craft-Storage-Boxes/sb1441,default,pd.html?cgid=products-scrapbooking-storage&start=5
Monday, October 25, 2010
Making Feng Shui Work for Your Work Life: Enhancing Wealth
By Jessica Hoelzel
Are you in control of your finances?
If your financial papers are a mess, chances are your finances are too. How do you regain control? By putting things in order. Knowing what you have, and where to access information when you need it will put you in the driver’s seat with your financial matters. Here are a few simple ways to do it:
Open the mail right after you get it, and sort statements into piles: 1) to pay, 2) to file, 3) to do – for if you need to take some other action like make a call.
Have two folders to put your “to pay” statements into, one labeled “Bills due 1st -15th, and one labeled “Bills due 16th-31st”.
Create another file labeled “Taxes”. Put anything you might need at tax time in there. It doesn’t need to be organized yet, just use it as a catch-all for now. You can sort things out at tax time.
Create separate folders for your statements to go into after you pay them, or take any other action necessary. Label!
Convenient places to keep files:1) a file cabinet or drawer
2) a portable file box
3) a box with a lid
4) stacking trays
5) a vertical desktop file holder
If you get all your statements online, you can organize them in a similar way to above, on your computer. Label the electronic files just like you would paper.
Trust me, you will get a sense of satisfaction and control to know you have a handle on your financials. And keep it up!
Are you in control of your finances?
If your financial papers are a mess, chances are your finances are too. How do you regain control? By putting things in order. Knowing what you have, and where to access information when you need it will put you in the driver’s seat with your financial matters. Here are a few simple ways to do it:
Open the mail right after you get it, and sort statements into piles: 1) to pay, 2) to file, 3) to do – for if you need to take some other action like make a call.
Have two folders to put your “to pay” statements into, one labeled “Bills due 1st -15th, and one labeled “Bills due 16th-31st”.
Create another file labeled “Taxes”. Put anything you might need at tax time in there. It doesn’t need to be organized yet, just use it as a catch-all for now. You can sort things out at tax time.
Create separate folders for your statements to go into after you pay them, or take any other action necessary. Label!
Convenient places to keep files:1) a file cabinet or drawer
2) a portable file box
3) a box with a lid
4) stacking trays
5) a vertical desktop file holder
If you get all your statements online, you can organize them in a similar way to above, on your computer. Label the electronic files just like you would paper.
Trust me, you will get a sense of satisfaction and control to know you have a handle on your financials. And keep it up!
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