Many moons ago technology was touted as promoting a paper-less society, but it is clear that that is not the case. In fact, some suggest that with all of the information that can be obtained via the internet, our paper consumption has actually increased. Paper seems to be the bane of my existence. In addition to a part-time job I operate a home-based business so it is imperative that my papers are organized. Once I found a cheque for over $1600 buried in a stack of papers. Luckily I was still able to cash it.

Try this simple exercise: create a flow chart of where the paper goes once it arrives in your mailbox. Where is your recycle bin? Do you have an accordion folder, filing cabinet or inbox? How do you keep track of bills to be paid? Do you use a calendar, white board, day timer or the computer? Regardless of your method, track the paper flow to determine the path your paper takes and identify any bottlenecks in your system.

If you cannot see your dining room table because of the paper, apply the following strategies:

• Sort the mountain of papers into the following categories: file, read, action, forward, shred, recycle. For items that need to be filed, group them into families (i.e., banking, insurance, school reports, telephone bills etc.).
• Make the effort to buy file folders and label them clearly. If you have an existing system, make sure that is makes sense (bulging files may need to be divided up, and seldom used files may no longer be necessary).
• For items requiring action, go on line and pay; write out a cheque, address and stamp the envelope, and put it near your keys so that the next time you go out it gets dropped in the mail.
• Recycle any dated material. Check coupons for expiry dates.
• Set aside a time to go through your “read” pile, or simply acknowledge that you aren’t going to read it and recycle instead. Don’t waste energy feeling guilty, just make the decision.
• Use caution with personal or financial material. Home shredding machines are relatively inexpensive and will eliminate the threat of identity theft.
• If you were hanging on to an article because you thought your brother might be interested in it, repeat step 3 and get it out of your house.

Remember that the onus is on us to check statements for accuracy. If you read the fine print of statements there are 30 days to challenge a credit card statement, and 45 for investment summaries.

Keep your stationery supplies in one place and set aside a spot to house these items and your papers. If you don’t have an office a filing cabinet can be disguised under a colourful scarf or baskets can be used for in-boxes. Getting a handle on your paper will not only eliminate costly service charges or late fees, it will promote mental clarity as well.