ORGANIZING TIPS

PAPER PURGING & ARCHIVE FILING

Situation:
I still haven’t cleared out 2008 papers from my filing system. I’m feeling unmotivated and overwhelmed.

Suggestions:
• Schedule a particular time on your calendar to do this project within the next two weeks. Get support from someone in your life before you start, and plan on reporting to them after to share your success!

• Make it pleasant, put on music that is soothing and uplifting, preferably instrumental. (Lyrics can clutter your brain when you’re trying to concentrate on this project!) Light a candle, open a window, get the air smelling good and fresh.

• Remove all bills and statements that are from the previous year. If they need to be kept for tax purposes or permanent records, file them in your archive files (make a plastic tab labeled “2008 Tax Records.”) Shred or recycle the rest. Remember: Tax files only need to be kept for seven years, so say goodbye to 2001 and earlier!!

• Glance through ALL of your files to purge what is no longer relevant. Example: Outdated events and documents, closed accounts, instruction manuals for items you no longer own, etc.

• Reward yourself in some special way when you have finished! It’s going to feel GREAT to get this handled, so go for it!!

I appreciate your business and friendship. Feel free to call me
with any questions about keeping your space organized!