Paper Pushing (or . . . What do I do with all this mail?!)

I have a secret . . . I LOVE mail.  Letters especially, but junk mail, catalogs, anything; I just like getting mail.  My problem is what to do with it all.  I've tried the Stuff Into a Drawer and Hope it Goes Away plan.  I've also done the trick Pack Into a Box and Store until Obsolete trick.  Guess what, neither work.  So, for 2010, I resolve to handle and file my mail using the RAPID method.

R - read: things to read later

A - attend: things/places to attend

P - pay: needs to be paid

I - important: like those insurance cards I thought I lost

D - dump: the true junk mail

This should also help keep my desk clean and clear.  

Speaking of which, did you clean yours off using the REMOVE method?  I did and found $35!  It pays to organize!

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Let's Get Organized!

According to the National Association of Professional Organizers, January is the Get Organized Month. So, let's start this Monday morning by cleaning our desktops using the R-E-M-O-V-E plan of attack.

R - reduce distractions; maybe a candy dish isn't such a good idea.
E - only everyday items; if you only use the hole punch once a month, it doesn't belong on your desk. But, if you use the stapler many times a day, it should be easy to reach.
M - move to the preferred side; are you left handed but your mouse pad is on the right? Move it over!
O - organize together; if it clips, tapes or staples things together, put them together. Organize like items with like items.
V - view your time; on a calendar and on a clock. The clock on your computer is good, but a stand alone clock in plain site is better.

E - empty the center; it's easier to get a project started and completed if you have room to work, so clear the center spot of your desk every day and only use it for items you are actively working on.

While I've tailored this plan for a desktop, it is very useful for any flat working surface (kitchen counters, workbench, dresser tops, bathroom counters, etc.).

Welcome to 2010!

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