Paper = clutter! At least in my humble opinion! With our office being in our basement, I know that every time I process a piece of paper, I'm not going down to the basement to do it. So I've created an interim incoming paper hub. When I first started researching what I would use, I thought perhaps metal wall files would work.
But when I looked at the prices, I decided against it. This one with seven pockets was $52, and since I needed about a dozen pockets, it was more than I wanted to spend.Next, I found this set of mesh wall files from Target, only available online for around $35 for a set of two. I liked these. They either hang on the wall or stand on a surface.
I stopped in Stapes yesterday, just to see what they had. I found a set of 6 clear plastic stacking trays for $10. Since I have space in my first-floor closet to stack these, I decided to get them. I didn't want to wait for an online order, I don't have to open a file to put things away, and they were on sale. I don't think I would have gone for this option if they were to be seen all the time. But since they'll be hidden away in the closet, they work for me! They are sturdy enough to stack all twelve in one stack.
As you can see, I've labeled each tray: general mail, bills, receipts, shredding, my to do, my business receipts, my general business, my husband's to do, coupons, and those categories related to foster parenting. You might not need as many trays as we do, but if you find paper is cluttering up your home or office, this idea may help.
How do you manage incoming paper?
More on paper:
Managing Paper
Despite the Digital Age, Paper Consumption Keeps Growing! 10 Ways to Help Reverse the Trend.
Sorting Mail
Three Steps to Decluttering
great idea, i have tried doing that but never last long. what do u do when you begin being organized and fall apart a week later? part of reason is disability, and exhaustion. a frustrating cycle!
ReplyDeletethanks for your tips, ideas, encouragement etc...
carole
Great question, Carol!
ReplyDeleteJust remember, it takes a long time to establish a habit! So hooray for you that you have a system in place!
If you can convince yourself that it is less exhausting to go ahead and put the mail where it belongs when you receive it, put the receipts away when you come in the door, etc., you'll do yourself a huge favor - both physically and emotionally. Clutter is depressing and drains your energy.
Take 5-15 minutes a day, as many times as you have energy, to get caught up on the piles.
When I have clean and clear surfaces, I'm motivated to keep them that way! Start with one surface and move on to another when it's clear.
Hope this helps. :)