Do you know what information is on your desk? Do you have documents that should have been answered, hidden somewhere under a pile? Generally, you’ll find yourself with a messy desk because you have no system in place. Here are some tips to overcome the barrage of papers covering your desk:
1. Create a filing system. Papers you file should meet the following criteria:
- Useful information, unavailable from other sources.
- Any document that will be used again within six months or a year.
- Information unavailable on the computer and cannot be put on disk.
2. Sort incoming mail. Separate correspondence into the following categories:
3. Action – letters/documents requiring your action. Discard any correspondence if:
A) deadlines have passed; B) have been answered, or C) you have no interest in keeping them.
4. Information – any documents not requiring action but must be read immediately place in an information file.
5. Read – Create an “in-office” read file.
6. Muddle through mounds of magazines. Tear our articles or recipes to read later, place in a read file. Cancel subscriptions. Throw out, donate, or recycle any magazines you do not intend to read.
7. Clear Desk
Always straighten your desk at the end of the day so you can start each morning with a clear desk and mind.
Janet Taylor is the founder of “Totally Organized,” a professional organizing firm based in Philadelphia, PA. Janet was featured on the Home and Garden Network (HGTV) Mission: Organization. Totally Organized offer organizational services, workshops, coaching, and products. For more information, you can reach Janet at Totally Organized, P.O. Box 54091, Philadelphia, PA 19105-4091, 215-229-7232 or via email at www.TotallyOrganized.biz
