This article by Denise Landers, founder and CEO of Key Organization Systems Inc. and a Paper Tiger Expert, will help you…. Denise also recommends The Paper Tiger Document Management Software and Filing System to help keep track of all your paper files throughout the year.
Are you struggling to get more done every day and yet running into obstacles that keep you from being as productive as possible? Where is the clutter in your life? It could be:
* a mental overload
* a surfeit of activities
* stacks of papers
* a barrage of email
* the corner of your garage
Whether you are facing piles of paper or the overload is hidden in your email inbox, you know it is something that needs to be tackled, and it nags at you. Those little guilt feelings at not getting around to clearing things out end up sapping your energy. If this describes you, follow these seven steps to gain control:
1. Break the task into manageable pieces. If it took ten years to accumulate, do not expect to deal with it all in one day. Schedule small blocks of time on your calendar.
2. Make sure everything has a home. You have to make a decision on each item. Having a specific place for everything gives you structure.
3. Store like items with like items. When you keep all of one type of item together, you know how many you have and where to find them.
4. Store things where you will use them. You need to select a logical home. Otherwise the clutter will accumulate again because you will leave an item where you use it.
5. Contain it. A container can be as small as a paper clip holder or as large as a room. Only keep what will fit. This helps you set boundaries.
6. Get rid of excess. Options include selling, donating, recycling, giving away, tossing. Keep a donation box handy all the time.
7. Create systems. The real key to getting organized and staying organized is to create a system that works for you and stick to it.
These strategies apply whether it is an organized office you seek or cleared spaces at home. Your mental outlook will improve, and your daily productivity will soar!
Copyright © Key Organization Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
If you would like to jumpstart your organizing efforts and add to your time management skills, Denise can help! and Twitter @timetrainer
Corporate Training: workshops and consulting to increase daily work flow and reduce stress
Individual Assistance: our onsite and virtual office organizing to bring about changes quickly
On Your Own: books and CDs to work at your own pace
Tags: document management system, Organize, paper filing systems, Productivity
