Files

Files here, files there, files everywhere! There are all kinds of files. Action files, financial files, tickler files, household records files, reference files, computer files. The tricky part about files is you have to set up a system that fits your unique needs. Whatever advice you look at, you have to tweak until it works for you. (That’s the tricky part about time management too!) Your goal: to easily find what you need when you need it.

Action files-a vertical holder provides easy access to these working files.

• top priority
• projects
• bills to pay
• pending
• to read
• to file

Tickler File-a reminder system for follow-up

Reference File-a file cabinet for records you need access to less frequently. Things like automobiles, income tax, insurance…plus information you collect about things that interest you.

Household Records File-to keep information about home appliances, electronics, home maintainence and repairs.

Computer Files-yup, these need to be organized too. Microsoft has an article with 7 Tips to Manage Your Files Better.

Your mission is to decide:

• Where do you want to keep which files?
• How you want to organize them within the file: alphabetically? What subject headings will you use? Will you keep an index of subject headings?
• Do you want to use colored files or tabs?
• What kind of files will you use? How will you label them?
• Will you date-stamp papers? How long will you keep them?

My filing system: I do have a desktop action file. However, items to read go in a basket, and items to file go into a desk drawer. I don’t have in and out boxes. I don’t have that many things that need follow-up, so I don’t use a tickler file. My household records file takes up a drawer in a file cabinet upstairs. In a handier location I have a two-drawer file cabinet with all my other files. I do find it helpful to keep an index that maps out what I keep where. I also use binders a lot. I have a household notebook binder, a binder for bank statements, and a separate expanding file where I keep paid bills.

Further Reading: File Drawer Organization series at Productivity Cafe