Episode 242: Clutter Clinic: Paper Control!

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Hi Friends!

We are wrapping up our Clutter Clinic Series with one of life’s biggest pain points…Paper Clutter.

“What if I need this someday?” 

“How long do I need to keep this?” 

“I am struggling to pay my bills so I avoid opening the mail” 

There is no denying that paper clutter is riddled with emotion.  

Whether you’re dealing with mail, school papers, work documents or never-ending subscriptions, it’s easy to find yourself feeling like you’re drinking from a firehose.

Not to worry, we’re going to walk with you every step of the way.

During this episode we walk through each of the clutter pitfalls and the role that each plays when it comes to paper clutter.

From the tactical side, below are 3 simple and practical tips that you can start doing today. Each of these will help you reduce the volume coming in and feel confident about knowing what to throw out.

1. Go Electronic for Statements.

One of the easiest ways to cut down on paper clutter is to get your recurring monthly statements sent to you electronically.  One of the common objections I hear from folks is that they use the paper statements to act as a reminder to pay their bills.

Here’s an easy fix: set up recurring payments on your banking app or website. It’s a secure login and will save you hours of time, and potential late fees. The best part is that you will drastically reduce the amount of paper clutter in your home

2. Edit Subscriptions

You know that magazine you always say you’re going to read but never do? No judgement, we’ve all been there. By cancelling any subscriptions that you are not reading you’ll save space and money that could be serving you better.

Still on the fence: Transfer your subscriptions to a digital version, and give yourself 6 months. If you still find that you’re not reading them, it’s time to put some money back in your pocket and cancel them. 

3. Get into a Routine

Step 1: Open the Mail. Opening the mail should be a daily occurrence, like making your bed and brushing your teeth. 

Step 2: Recycle Immediate.

As soon as you get the mail, leaf through it and throw any junk mail, solicitation, etc directly into the recycling bin. If you can avoid bringing it in the house all together, even better! 

Step 3: Action or Reference?

Whatever doesn’t get recycled goes into 1 of 2 categories: 

Action: To do (random bills, RSVPs, permission slips)

Reference: To file (declarations pages of your insurance, tax returns, etc)

What to Shred: Can I get this ______ electronically if I need it?  Can I find the answer online if I have a question? If the answer is yes, then chances are it’s ok to shred!  *You can always consult your tax advisor if you have any questions.

Final thoughts: 

• Set parameters of when you are going to pay bills and file (weekly, monthly, when your reference bin fills up). 
• Be consistent, it’s the key to sustainability and building muscle memory
• Start where you are. Today is a great day to reframe new habits.

Need extra help: contact one of our SBO Partners or check out my book, HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized

Happy Organizing!

Enneagram & Clutter Learn More:

https://simplyborganized.com/enneagram-clutter-course/

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