In our increasingly digital world, papers still manage to clutter our desks and counters. These papers take up valuable space, time, and energy that could be used more resourcefully. Whether you are a “filer” or a paper “piler,” implement these five simple strategies to help efficiently manage the papers that enter your home or office.
1. Designate a Landing Zone
Most days you enter the office or house with a handful of papers. Instead of mindlessly setting them down, designate a clear landing zone – such as a tray, the edge of your desk, or a basket. It should be close to the door and on your main walking path. This area should be easy to access and clearly visible.
2. Triage Daily
While you don’t need to deal with every piece of paper each day, you should process them regularly. Sort items into labeled trays on your desk into simple categorizes, such as — action, reference, and archive.
3. Plan to Process Action Items
Papers aren’t usually made a priority when you have a busy schedule. Plan a time each week (and put it on your calendar) to take action on the papers, addressing urgent items first.
4. Take Others into Account
Most likely other people bring papers into your space and add to your piles, as well. Be sure to communicate your system for managing papers, enlist others in the process, and create a cohesive approach that works for everyone who uses the shared space.
5. Bring Less In
You can save time and energy by not bringing paper into the home/office. Immediately discard junk mail, request a digital version of invoices, take pictures of receipts, leave flyers or cards from an event behind, and unsubscribe from mailing lists. The less paper that comes in, the less you have to manage.
SUMMARY AND NEXT STEPS
By implementing a simple process to manage your paper, you can minimize overwhelm in your day-to-day tasks. The presence of paper in your life can’t be completely controlled, but it can be tamed. Life and work are demanding of your time, so don’t let the burden of paper stand in your way of having a productive day!
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