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Secrets of Living with Paper

Are you tired of living with piles of paper?   Here are the secrets of living with paper:

A.  Binders.  If you collect information on specific topics of interest you can easily store it in binders.  Use a separate binder for each topic.  For example, you might collect articles on parenting, sales management and travel.  Simply put them in the binders and place on a bookcase for easy retrieval.  Binders are also great for keeping multiple issues of newsletters.

B.  Projects.  Instead of keeping project information on your desk or in a file, set up a basket, crate or tote bag for each project you're currently working on.  For example, you might be in charge of the company picnic, gathering information to refinish your basement or looking for fun places to visit this summer.  Simply set up a container for each project, label it, and fill it with information.

C.  Tickler Files.  If you have an average amount of paper, try setting up a file for "next week" and "next month."  As you come across items that need to be done in those time periods, simply place them in the appropriate file.  If you have a lot of to do's, set up a file for each month of the year and each day of the month.  File papers in the appropriate dates.  If you have a large amount of paper, set up a file for each day of the month.

D.  Paper Sorter.  At an office supply store or mass merchant, pick up a step file sorter or a file box.  Label files:  to do, urgent, awaiting answer, bills to pay, spouse/supervisor/child (anyone you might have papers to forward to), consider (for items you want to think about), read, and file.  You'll file all your paperwork into these files as you open your mail, receive faxes, etc.  Think about what files you would need and tweak the above list as necesssary.  Remember that these are short term files to help you organize your paper.  Once paper is sorted into these files you'll take some type of action on each one.

Remember to sort mail and incoming paperwork over a recycling bin and near a shredder so a large percentage of it can immediately disappear from your life.

Copyright 2008.  Barbara Myers.  The Time Manager.  Free tip booklet at www.ineedmoretime.com.

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Step File Sorter: