There are two types of paper clutter: the incoming and the infamous piles.
The only way to end the piling habit is to deal with the incoming papers immediately.
If you effectively deal with papers as they enter your home, you'll eliminate the source of the paper piling compulsion.
Don't let your piles overwhelm you and keep you from taking this simple first step.
The best way to purge your piling is to create an Action Center.
All you need is wall or a desk file with the minimum of three containers.
If you are excited to get started, don't wait to buy a file, any old basket or decorative box will do.
Label the containers.
Act.
Use.
File.
Keep it simple to start.
Once you get into the habit of acting instead of piling you can add more.
The next step is important.
Place your file near your current paper pile up.
There is obviously a reason you prefer to pile where you do.
My guess is it is convenient.
Let's keep this convenient for you.
Now, here's the habit breaker.
Make a commitment to review your mail and other papers the minute they enter your home.
Don't allow anymore litter to enter your life.
Shred and toss ALL unsolicited advertisements immediately.
This type of information is the culprit for the majority of your clutter.
You are not going to miss out on the deal of a lifetime.
Unless you will use it, toss it.
Open all financial statements and bills.
Toss ALL the advertisements inside, for the same reason as stated above.
Keep only the statement and the return envelope.
Unless you pay on-line, then it is safe to toss the envelope too.
If you receive a magazine or catalog, it's time to toss the old issue.
This could be tough for some of you.
So, maybe just start by tossing the catalogs.
You can probably find what you want online.
We can deal with magazine pileups later.
Now, do your Action filing.
The Act container is for items that require actionlike bills to pay or rsvps.
Place all statements and documents that require no action but need to be savedfor tax purposes in the File container.
And finally, place coupons and other references in the Use container.
Remember, only if you are actually going to use them.
Don't listen to that little voice that taunts you with the "but maybeI'll needit someday" whispers.
That's it.
You have the beginning of an Action Center.
Add to your center as you and your family become more comfortable with the new system.
You may wish to add a container for each child.
The earlier you can instill good organizational skills into your child, the easier it will be for the whole family.
Make your center more efficient by adding items you regularly use.

o A shredder

o A message board

o Pens

o Envelopes

o Stamps

o Tape

o Stapler

Make your center more comfortable by using filing containers that work with your style.
Many containers available at your local office supply store may not fit your personal decor.
Be creative, if beautiful old bowls work for you, use them.
Shop at home first.
You could also consider...

o A small cabinet

o A 3-drawer chest

o Decorated shoe boxes

o A wall magazine rack

o Wicker Baskets

o Old cup or bowl golf trophies

o Antique wooden boxes

o Old large handbags mounted on the wall

The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
Create an area you take pleasure in looking at.
Organizing should be enjoyable and simple if it is going to be successful.
Now, what happens when the containers are full? Well that is the subject of another article.
It is all about "a place for everything, and everything in its place.
" The first step is to get that Action Center created.
Getting and staying organized is all about making small changes and enjoying the process.
© 2006 Catherine Anderson, Just Organize Your Stuff, All rights reserved.