According to national statistics retrieved from my profession’s support group, the National Association of Professional Organizers, 25% of us save papers in piles rather than files AND according to the Wall Street Journal, the average US executive wastes six weeks annually searching for important documents lost to clutter.

Finding misplaced papers wastes our time and our money (think late fees or time wasted). If organizing your papers is stacking them on a counter top or table, consider the following steps:

1. Set up an In-box for incoming papers
2. Set up an action file for those papers that need action to be taken
3. Set up a self managed system in your file cabinets for reference or archive filing
4. Consistently use these three systems

The same steps can be used for data management. According to NAPO statistics, the average worker sends and receives 190 email messages a day. Here are some additional helps for paper and data management:

Stop Paper from coming into your Space

• Follow this link to remove your name from junk mail lists: https://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/
• Follow this link to reduce the number of insurance and credit card offers you receive: https://www.optoutprescreen.com/?rf=t OR call 888-567-8688 (If you are nervous about providing them with your social security #, just remain quiet when twice prompted for that information.)
• Visit catalog choice  to remove your name from unwanted catalogues. It is quick and easy and at no cost to you.

Stop Data from coming into your Space

• Reduce the amount of junk e-mail (SPAM) you receive by using a spam blocker program. To file a spam report with the Federal Trade Commission, follow this link: http://www.ftc.gov/spam/
• Reduce the amount of unwanted phone calls you receive by calling the US Federal Trade Commission’s DO NOT CALL REGISTRY at 877-ftc-help.

Keep Only What’s Needed

• Don’t stuff your file drawers with unnecessary papers. Follow this link to see what you should keep and what you can toss: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records

Prevent Identity Theft

• Click here to read the short article titled A Pack Rat’s Guide to Papers
• Order a free credit report three times a year, once from each of the national credit reporting companies. Follow these two links to learn more about your rights: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/freereports/index.html http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/credit/rights.shtm
• Follow this link to get your free credit reports: https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp

Once you have a system in place for managing your data and papers your home office or work-at-home small business office will work much more efficiently. Imagine, not having to maneuver that stack of papers any longer or continue to be frustrated with your computer inbox containing more than 50 messages. Call Organizing Mind over Matter if you need help designing personalized paperwork or data systems that work for your home or small business. Office AND Paper Organizing are one of our main specialties.