Let's face it. No one categorically loves filing. But most citizen who categorically hate filing are categorically doing things that make filing much more painful than it needs to be. Here are 5 of the most base filing mistakes along with ways to make filing much easier!
- Overstuffing your file folders and file drawers. If your file drawers are overstuffed, of policy you hate to file! You should all the time have at least 6-10 inches of space available. That way you can categorically spread open a file with one hand and drop your paper in with the other hand. If your drawers are overstuffed, I certify you are retention too much paper! Start cleaning out 3 files a day and before you know it, you will have an easy-to-use file drawer again.
- Using hanging folders and then putting a quarterly briefcase inside the hanging folder. There categorically is no need for folders inside hanging folders for the median filing system. Some expert organizer will disagree, but I stopped doing this many years ago and am so glad I did. It's so much simpler and easier! I spend a lot less time filing and it takes less than 20 seconds to add a new file. Plus I save money on folders!
- Keeping mail in envelopes. This makes your files very bulky, and makes it very difficult to find what you need. It also creates extra steps when paying bills. When you open your mail, toss everything but the bill itself and the envelope you need to mail the bill. Lay it out flat, note the date you paid the bill on the bill itself and then immediately file it.
- Putting business names on labels instead of generic names like "Mortgage". If you use the business name, you have to generate a new briefcase every time the business changes name or you refinance, etc.
- Hand writing labels using a quarterly pen instead of a ticket or labeler. This makes it nearly impossible for whatever to help you file. If you don't want to use your computer to print out filing labels, invest in a label maker such as a P-touch system. If you prefer to hand write your labels, write neatly, and use a thick black marker. I propose getting 3.5 inch plastic tabs so you can write long titles easily. You can also use your P-touch Labeler and 1/2" labels. Just insert them in the tabs. They fit perfectly. You can also use plain white self-stick filing labels, and stick them to the file insert before sliding them into the tab.
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The 5 Most common Filing Mistakes & How to Fix Them
The 5 Most common Filing Mistakes & How to Fix Them
