Come out from beneath the Piles of Files

Filing systems, filing systems, filing systems, filing systems - paper piles are a problem when an effective filing system is non-existent. People generally resist filing their papers away for a few common reasons. That's right, you are not alone!

• I know exactly which pile it's in
• I will never find it if I file it away
• My filing cabinet is full
• I don't know where to start

Start the Core Four™ system in your home or office today. Create a folder with each of the following titles on it: To Do, To Pay, To File, To Read/Review. Place these folders in an upright way so that as mail comes in it can be put into one of the Core Four™ folders. If you aren't a folder type person, then label four trays. They should be stackable for best use of space or use wall hanging trays. The important thing here is to pick the style that suits you and start the system. Now, you can go through your office picking up all the loose papers and file them into one of the four files.

Now it's time to create your filing system so that those piles can be filed! Remember to keep your 'office documents' separate from 'office expenses' and both of those should be kept separate from 'personal'.

Before you start:

• Schedule time for this project in your day timer. Three hours is a good time frame.
• Have all the resources you need to start. The basics include: hanging file folders, sub folders, tabs (legal size), labels (Avery 8366 fit perfectly), sticky notes, and a bankers box to transfer archived files into.
• Don't allow yourself to get sidetracked by the "oh, that's where that was" paperwork that you will inevitably come across. Just put stuff that you realize is an action item into your To-Do folder and review your To-Do folder each day.
• Stay focused. That's what I do when working with my clients - keep them focused and working towards the goal, which today is creating filing systems and clearing the paper piles.

What items do you use to keep your office organized? We would love to know. Drop us a note by emailing your comments to info@kaosgroup.com