Tips and Articles
Organizing Rules for Papers
- Never think "Where can I put this?" always ask, "Where would I look for this?" If you put things away with this new rule in mind, it will change everything. It doesn't matter whether it is an object or papers; everything needs a home that makes sense.
- Purge your files once a year, and make sure your files are named well. Be as specific as possible and watch out for redundant files.
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Create a file index. It is a map to your file cabinets and allows you to find any paper quickly. Keep a copy on your computer for easy updating, and print a copy, put in a sheet protector and attach to file cabinet with a clip or magnet for quick reference.
Organizing Rules for Things
- Is it useful, beautiful, or loved? . If it fails to pass this test, pass it on.
- Store like items together, and at their point of use.
- Prioritize your items , using the A-B-C-D method. "A; items are things you use every day, possibly several times a day. "B" items are used several times a week,"C" items are seasonal, random, and occasional. "D" items are broken, obsolete,unidentifiable. They can usually be tossed or stored in a separate location. You can organize a closet this way, or your kitchen, or your desk.
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Always store your "A" and "B" items no higher than your shoulder, no lower than your hips. You should not have to bend and reach and dig for those things. Its okay to dig for "C" items, and "D" items should be thoroughly purged and relocated.
Organizing Rules for Time and Overcoming Procrastination
- Do it now. If a task can be done in 2 minutes or less, do it right away.
- Use your minutes. Instead of waiting for a block of time, master the art of using your small blocks of time.
- Pure focus for 10 minutes beats 30 minutes of multi-tasking every time.
© 2004 Leigh Ann Christian
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