NO more piles! BEST Paper Management System (Add these TWO things today!)
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- Опубликовано: 19 июн 2024
- Thank you Blinkist for sponsoring today's video! You can try it FREE for 7 days here: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom AND get 25% off a premium membership!
Books I listen to on Blinkist:
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- The 5 Second Rule
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- Essentialism
- Effortless
- Simplicity Parenting
- The 5 Love Languages
PAPER MANAGEMENT -- There are two things that you could add today to your household paper management system that would RADICALLY improve it and REDUCE the number of paper piles you have around your house!!!
FREE printable: cli.re/paper-management
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We have a few ways that we can come alongside you:
1) PRIVATE DECLUTTERING GROUP:
This takes place in a private Facebook group. Here's what you can expect:
- 5-10 minute videos each weekday with guided decluttering tasks
- monthly themes, weekly challenges
- 1 hour live guided decluttering sessions each week for accountability
- encouragement & support from other members
- cost is $11/month
This is ideal if you're looking for more motivation & accountability.
To learn more and to sign up, visit here: cli.re/minimal-mom-private-group
2) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY WORKBOOK:
This workbook is designed to walk you through decluttering each area of your home in 15 minute lessons.
- 168 full color pages
- easy to follow lessons designed for limited time & energy
- our key concepts (like inventory, the silent to-do list, the endowment effect & more) are spread throughout the book, too
Ideal for those looking for a self-paced guidebook to declutter their home quickly & efficiently.
The workbooks are $20 (digital or spiral bound)
Shipping: $4 flat rate domestic US
Find more details here
Physical Workbook: cli.re/Spiral-Bound-Workbook
Digital Workbook: cli.re/Digital-Workbook
3) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY COURSE:
Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day Course: cli.re/Course
In the Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day course we go through the workbook, breaking down specific areas of your home in detail to be able to declutter faster and with more confidence. If you want to know specifics (like how many of each thing to keep) this course is for you.
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Хобби
Thank you Blinkist for sponsoring today's video! You can try it FREE for 7 days here: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom AND get 25% off a premium membership! We hope you have a great day!!! -Dawn
I don't know what your moms handle is on here but tell your mom I said hello!!
And that I miss her being on the channel! Thanks! 😉😘
For me, most papers can get scanned into a computer. Most manuals are online. There are only a few things where you need the original: birth certificates, car and house titles.
Where did you get the tiered file thingy
Thank you! This is so helpful!
Your tiered file holder really speaks to me. Thank you so much for showing that. I realize that my files are so congested, AND THEY DO NOT COMPLY TO MY BANDWIDTH REQUIREMENTS. Thank you so much for talking to us previously about bandwidth also. You are a gem, Dawn!
When my son became a new driver, I put the vehicle registration, insurance card, info on what to do in case of an accident, and a pencil, in a "red" pencil pouch. I labeled it "For accidents or police". I put the red pouch in the glove box of the car (one in every vehicle.) That way when flustered, it is easy to find the info you need. I hadn't thought about that same concept for other important papers but I'm going to do that!
I do that exact thing, too! I started out with a red pencil pouch but now with all the colors out there, I found a magenta one so I know what to grab and all my papers will be in one spot if needed. I do the same in another color for all oil change and other car maintenance papers. Great minds!!
Brilliant
That is SO SMART! My son is getting ready to take driver's Ed, and I am totally going to implement this!
Great idea
Great idea! There's not much worse than not being able to find the paperwork you need with, a cop at your car door!
Instead of the red folder, I use a fireproof box for those important documents. It has a handle so it is still portable in a hurry but is also fireproof in case we can't get it out of a fire.
me too, and I keep it in the basement because we live in tornado alley.
I also put mine in a fire proof/water resistant hanging file folder box and it's small enough to just grab and go
@@kimbucha2949 Same here.
Us too we keep it with our emergency preparedness packs
A Fireproof box is my standard wedding gift, and it's always appreciated.
Here is a tip for papers you need to store: I use large ziplock bags for receipts, bills, insurance policies, etc. instead of folders. You can zip them closed if you need to keep the receipts, write the year on them, see what's inside, and they take up less space than a folder. Also, it's easier to keep things in them since they aren't open on the side.
I use the zip folders from Dollar tree, they can hold larger invoices, w2s, 1099 and are a little sturdy.
OMG I needed this tip. Keeping those little dang receipts in my files did not work, and copying receipts onto a piece of paper to then file is exhausting even to think about, so, wow, zip bags, perfect.
I have made plenty of folders. They don't work for me. I can usually get multiple years of reference material into a single Ziploc. The folders just spill and you can see the color of documents easier thru Ziploc bags, making things easier to find.
Where do you put the ziplock bags? In a drawer?
Why not use pocket file folders?
I love the red folder idea, I used to work part time for an owner operator truck driver. I put all his very important documents in page protectors in a bright hot pink binder. He protested, preferred black like all his other stuff. He called me from the road, frantic to find a particular document, the state police were doing random checks and were in the tractor while he searched. I simply told him it was in the pink binder. The “embarrassing bright pink color” saved the day.
I got an idea!
RED FILE FOLDER
Add a pen & RED Post-it pad in the folder. When you remove a document, jot down the DATE, WHAT you removed & WHY.
Put it on the folder, refrigerator, &/or mirror to remind yourself to PUT IT BACK! LOL
RED FILE FOLDER
Oh yeah, maybe add a cash stash too. (Taped in the back so you don't easily use it for "non-emergencies"!)
I've been using this system ever since your original video, Dawn, and it's been life changing. I have ADHD, and my brain has zero clue what to do with paper that's categorized by themes. But setting a time each week and month and doing what the label says (e.g. PAY) is so doable, I'm usually done with the whole basket before I get bored. 😅 One trick I've added was reframing "productivity" as my hobby. I make things like this as fun as possible (pretty basket and folders, YT in the background, cool pen to fill forms with,...) and I make them an important part of my life. Now if anyone asks, my biggest hobby is finding ways to stay on top of things and have the life and home I want. And that makes me feel excited about doing my paperwork. 🤣
I have ADHD too, and I've been using the Sunday Basket since I saw Dawn's version of it on her video awhile back also. It's helped me SO much! You might be interested in a book that has also helped me a lot called "Order From Chaos" by Jaclyn Paul. It's full of great ways to help adults with ADHD get and keep their homes organized. It's really motivating too!
Yay girlydroid! We are TWINS! I've been using the original system since Dawn introduced it also and love it! I have added a few more categories of paper I receive (like Medical.... and ADHD) and store all those extra half-used writing tablets in front of my pretty turquoise file folders in the grey basket. My kitchen is turquoise and yellow btw. ;-) However, I must admit, for the projects I am currently working (which can be several) I need to keep some paper out as I work on that project (while the other project paper is in a pile) or it is out-of-sight out-of mind. Not sure how to deal with this category! Any ideas? Thanks. Linda
I love this! The "hobby" idea has crossed my mind. But I thought it was just my Adhd side playing "pretend". Now that I know someone else does it I'm going all in!
*waves * just diagnosed myself last week. Fancy meeting you here!😆
@girlydroid I love this comment- this is totally me!!! 💕
My fav tip for restaurant coupons was to keep them between the seat and the console. Why? You have to drive to get there. How many times have you driven somewhere to realize you left the coupon at home. Urgh. Plus, you can clean out the expired coupons when waiting in line somewhere.
At the end of 2021, I finally got on top of my paper clutter. It took about 3 months because I had a ton in boxes that I didn't organize before moving...but I set a timer for 15 minutes every evening until it was done. My 2022 New Years resolution was to stay on top of paper clutter. I simplified my system & take a few minutes everyday to: Act on it, File it, or Shred it! No maybe pile or deal with it later folders...and finally...SUCCESS!
I appreciate that. I have boxes from years of health issues and then a series of unwanted moves and keep dragging it all around. I started and now need to motivate to keep going and finish this time. It seems so overwhelming.
Where did u get the 3 tired file box?
@Rachel Enochs I really like the timer idea. Thank you for sharing.
@@mmartinez4117 Hi, It's listed as a link in the drop-down below the title. Click below the title where it says: ...more. (Along with other items featured in this video)
Thank you for the suggestion of working a little each day. I have started shredding my mail at the post office but I have to back track on the old stuff. I just set up my paper shredder next to my chair in the bedroom where I listen to the radio. Hopefully I can train my paper tiger.
Dawn I think I have seen all your videos. I found you a few weeks ago and I have binge watched all of them . My husband of 19 years died 3 months ago from brain cancer and so now I am downsizing and honoring Doug’s wishes by giving certain of his belongings to the people he wanted stuff to go to. At the same time I am decluttering MY stuff. I have simplified my kitchen. I am really proud of myself. I am in Minnesota. Maybe you could visit? The hard part this week was watching so many of Doug’s video and DVD collection leave our home. The people he knew would want the movies I didn’t want came over yesterday and took home a huge box. It made it real. Also when was doing my kitchen decluttering I could only do 15 to 30 min at a time before the whole last 2 years of his sickness and death overwhelmed me. But YOUR videos gave me the permission to do it in small amounts of time. God bless you. I love the videos with you and Diana as well since I too am a woman of faith.
I'm sorry for your loss. You sound like you are doing your best. Keep it up, a little at a time.
😊 thank you
Prayers for you,Kim❤ God bless you and I’m so sorry for your loss.
I've had great success with keeping a 12-month rotating file for stuff like receipts that I may need short-term. Every month, I shred last year's stuff for that month. It keeps things accessible, but automatically sets a time limit on how long I keep it.
Awesome idea, Judy!
I do This too! My husband thinks I'm a hero when I can find an old receipt. I keep my warranty paperwork with the receipt and if it's still under warranty for another year it stays in the folder.
That's awesome you have found something that works for you! I do something like that, but I have a basket in my desk file drawer where I keep similar things you keep. Instead of monthly, I empty the papers at the end of the year, temporarily holding them in a shoe box about a month, then my husband burns them. Every January I start my basket empty and fresh for the new year! I never have to mess with it unless I need to find a receipt or similar, and the most recent ones are on top. I think it works for me because I'm one of those people (a Butterfly, if you're familiar with Clutterbug) that have to have systems where it's VERY easy to put things away... I guess throwing them in a basket doesn't get much easier, lol!
Will you please tell us more about this type of date driven system? Please explain how you locate receipts quickly when you are fuzzy on the date? I’m not referring to major purchases. I realize most of us have a general idea within a few months on those things. For me, the concern is more like a smaller item (examples might be a hairdryer or a costly Halogen lightbulb that burns out sooner than a year) that may be buried on the same receipt as every day things like groceries. TIA
I had a similar question myself but figured if all my receipts were in one place, I'd eventually find it in the files. I can often (not always) remember which store receipt to look for. Just having them all in 1 place will be so much easier than current system.. which is scattered. 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
Someone suggested I put my paper organization action center in my paper clutter spot. Then when naturally going to put my clutter there it was convenient to file it in my action center/file folder, etc. This also helped me justify making it pretty since it will be sitting out 😉. After six months of that habit building up, I then moved it into a nearby cabinet, which helped me be successful using my action center. Three years later I am faithfully using my action center.
I have a very helpful folder in my action file box called “To Attend”. This is where I put field trip information, school spirit week flyers, invitations, etc. Then I note the event in my planner. When I see the event is approaching in my planner, I look in the “To Attend” folder for detailed information (address, what to wear, what to bring on the field trip, etc.)
This is a great idea. Thanks
Love your suggestions! I find it to be a balancing act between storing enough of the important paperwork and not keeping too much. As for Marie Kondo’s suggestion that we should get rid of all manuals, I disagree. I have found it extremely helpful to have an accordion file with manuals for my house (appliances, heater and water heater, generator, etc.) for troubleshooting problems, searching for parts, and so forth. I’ve also needed to access those very documents during storms when the internet is down or the power is out. So I consider some manuals worth storing.
Agree. I keep an expandable file for that. I also I keep in it the maintenance records for the house i.e. roof repairs, heating system, new faucet receipts.
I only keep the manuals for large items like appliances. I put them in a folder and store them near the actual appliance.
It's also nice to have the manuals in case you ever decide to sell or pass along an item. Friends gave us their washer when they moved and had all the paperwork, including the warranty, which was very thoughtful.
@@catbalou6511 you’re so right. The people who sold me my house left manuals, and it has been very helpful.
I agree, I keep mine on my book shelf in a couple of those clear containers meant for holding magazines and I have them separated by rooms of the house like kitchen (refrigerator, dishwasher, toaster oven, etc.), bedroom (humidifier, treadmill, etc.), utility (furnace, freezer, vacuum cleaner, etc.), and even outside (lawn mower, snowblower, trimmer, etc.). It makes them easy to find, and I like to keep them in case we sell or give the item to someone at some point.
Dawn, you are incredible. The timing of this video has blown me away, and I am praising God!...I have been watching your channel for quite a while, learning things before I was ready to start decluttering, and trying the occasional little thing here and there. This week I was ready to start - so excited! Only had time for 5-15 mins per day so far but making progress. I have started in the area that most needs it - the piles in the office that have sat there for YEARS. Just now, I was searching through your videos to find your system for paper clutter. I watched a couple of old ones but felt I needed something that went through explaining your whole CURRENT system. Then I saw today's video - I couldn't believe it! I haven't watched it yet but am SO EXCITED and amazed at how God sees my need and cares SO MUCH! Woohoo! Much love from England xx
Praising God with you! His timing always shows His love for us.
@@oliviarucker5013 So so true. Thank you and bless you!
Alice, I resonate so much with what you wrote. I am in the same situation. Thank you, Lord, for the timing of this video!
@@grandmaflossieandme413 Yay! Isn't He wonderful?
And I have found that of the huge pile sitting for years, that has not been needed, no more that 10 percent will be kept!!
We are such worry wart hoarders!! Have fun! Declutter away!
I've created a "red folder" system for each member of my family. All categorized as Birth, Church, Elementary, HS, College, Social Benefits, Driver's License, Travel and Miscellaneous. When they move out of the house, that folder will go with them.
Great idea.
I did the same,so helpful to teach young adults to look after their documents.
I love the red folder idea. As a mom of 5 I feel like I’m always looking for birth certificates! This will help me eliminate even more paper clutter!!
And shot records.
I am a mom of 4. 1 is adopted and 1 has medical issues. It is brilliant to have a file folder with the important things for each. A birth certificate, SS card, shot records, surgery/major medical for my complex kiddo and legal for my adoptee.
For several years now I have been using a 3-ring binder with the clear plastic sleeves in it, one for each family member, each sleeve contains birth certificate, SS card, shot records, and CDIB cards (Indian)... Whenever we need to go somewhere that requires any of these I just grab my binder and go... has made it so much easier and I have gotten a lot of good compliments on it.
@@shannonmorrison8055 I do this also, such a time-saver.
We have a similar system, but I got tired of having a big lump in the bottom of the folder, where the passports and social security cards and stuff were just lumped together. So I use the clear plastic photo pages (used in photo albums) to hold the smaller items, and page protectors for the larger ones. There are photo pages in a bunch of different sizes, from credit card size to 5x7, so there's a right size for everything, and they're easier to flip through to find the item I'm looking for.
I already do a lot of these things! Great ideas as always Dawn. My best advice that keeps paper clutter super manageable for me is to not have any paper. All my bills and statements come digitally so I rarely have to file anything. We moved almost two years ago and I really wanted to deal with a small stack of "special papers" that were kind of sentimental so I scanned them using my phone and saved them to my Google Drive and recycled the originals. Now I can access them any time and I don't have to worry about them getting lost or wrecked in storage. I also have a label on our mail box that says "No unaddressed mail please" which stops a lot of junk mail at the source. When my kids were little and brought home copious amounts of artwork, I would display it for a little while and then scan it, again using my phone. Then at the end of the year I would print up a little book at Staples and pop it in their memory box. Easy peasy.
Great idea!!
Do you use a certain app yo scan things to your phone or just use your camera?
Love the artwork idea! Thank you for all the suggestions!
@@andrayabarber579 I use an app called Scanner Pro it's as easy as taking a picture and you can name each item whatever you like.
We keep our version of the red file in our freezer. Most people don't know that the freezer is a fire-safe box. I have even heard that first responders know to check there for advanced directives. Our daughter knows that our important papers are there as well.
Keeping important papers in the freezer is a brilliant idea. Thank you!
Curious, I’ve never heard of that. Are the papers kept in something waterproof? I’m wondering what happens if there’s a power cut and the freezer defrosts, will papers get wet? Thanks :)
@@carriecobb8 Our files are in a plastic file similar to the one Dawn uses. We've had power outages, but never any damage to our papers. Our freezer is frost-free, so maybe that helps, too.
Your freezer is not waterproof, though! In the event of a fire, everything in the area gets sprayed with the high pressure hoses. You need a fire proof & water proof safe. They don’t cost much. I speak from living this horrific experience first hand!
My mom had some of her important papers in the freezer. They were fine several days after a tornado destroyed her house.
One thing I did was to switch to paperless billing with auto-pay. It keeps so much paper out of our house (also good for the environment) and no more late payments due to them being buried under a pile of paperwork! We have our credit card linked to the accounts for automatic payment. We build up points on the credit card which is a bonus. The credit card is paid automatically through our checking account. So much time saved and no paper to deal with! 😊😊😊 Keeping up with the random bills that come in is a breeze now.
Auto pay also insures that you don’t forget to pay it on time and a bonus is your credit score is possibly affect. ❤
We have an “in case of death” binder. It has our house deeds, wills, birth certificates, life insurance papers, vehicle ownership papers, a medical record for each person, retirement account info, etc. We also have a home management binder for short term papers. Then we have a current year tax folder where all our current year receipts go. Once our taxes are done for the year, that pile gets cleaned out and put in a box in the attic in case of an audit. All of our owner’s manuals go in that attic box as well.
Your "Time Will Tell" folder has been life changing for me. I was aways losing important papers that I needed to do something with among the unimportant time will tell documents. Now I have one "To Do" folder, one "Time Will Tell" folder, and then a firesafe box with all of our important documents (including tax files). I never have to search for papers any more because I know that they will be in one of those three. I have also started actually completing my to do folder, too. It doesn't feel as overwhelming when it's just one small folder. And I can grab it and bring it with me to go through when I know I'll be waiting at an appointment for one of my kids' or something. I actually thought I was a person who couldn't be accountable, but now I realize I was just so overwhelmed by the old system. Now it's so easy that I actually want to do the tasks so I don't get behind.
Mary! This is awesome!! Way to go!
While my Mother was alive, I had a red notebook - one side had all of her medical info (living will as an example), flipped over was her funeral arrangements. Whenever they called and said to meet her at the hospital, I grabbed the red notebook. When she passed and they called us to the nursing home, I grabbed the notebook and was prepared with her funeral wishes etc. It was a game changer for me, no panicking! My husband and I have a small fireproof safe in our closet with all of our important papers, birth certificates, marriage licenses, car titles and our wills. We can pick it up if necessary, but wouldn't really need to - that has set my mind at rest too. I do have a small plastic file box that I keep all of our big purchase items receipts (in case we sell), how to books, warranties, subscription services paperwork.
I put a small trash can near my mail slot in my living room. Now when we get the mail I go through it right away and throw away the junk. Having a time to clean my "hotspots" every night helps stay on top of it as well. We have also implemented the time will tell basket for school papers. It helps my daughter, who thinks she needs to keep everything, forget about it & then I can pitch it without a fit 😁
I also have a 2nd one for the Shredder. (My shredder is in the basement so once a week I specifically go downstairs to shred the documents, labels, etc...)
I realize this isn’t a solution for everyone,
but I have a small trash can and a small recycling container on the front porch near the mailbox. If it’s junk mail that doesn’t contain personal information (like any of the former tenants’ migraine-inducing Ulta catalogs) it doesn’t even enter the house.
Things like credit card offers still
come in, but there’s a shredder near the entryway now to take care
of those, too.
@@bakerfritz4681 migraine inducing ulta catalogs 😂 so true!
I tried the “time will tell” basket and was frustrated when there were some important papers me or my husband had put in there that I ended up overlooking because I had told myself “that decision will be made for me because that’s how the basket works” but based on this video I realize it wasn’t the basket (the system) that didn’t work, it’s that we put something important in the wrong place!
I go through the mail every afternoon. We pay all our bills online and don’t really receive much in the paper form. I love the red folder idea and the time will tell bin. I have been slowly getting rid of paper clutter in my house. It feels sooooo good!!!
I used to have paper EVERYWHERE. I purchased a shredder that I shred as soon as I go to the mail box, everything is gone through immediately. I have a family folder that bills go in. When I pay the bill it gets put in the binder and last month gets shredded. I also have a magazine holder on top of my desk. It gets gone through every 1 st of the month. I always go through and shred what I don’t need then I file the good stuff that must be kept in basement. That’s when I also change my furnace filter. I’ve been doing this for a few years so it’s a habit now. No more paper clutter. Enjoy the day
Vital documents (birth certificate, social security cards, home insurance documents, etc) should go in a fireproof file box, not a plastic accordion folder.
Another idea for long-term records storage is organizing them in standard 3-ring binders. You can put plastic folder dividers in them so you don’t have to hole punch every piece of paper, and you can subdivide the binder with the folder tabs.
You can then have a neat collection of 3-4 binders (or however many you need), each with a different category name: Finances/Taxes, Home, Car, Pets, Kids, etc. Reference binders like this fit neatly on a shelf, and are easy to flip through.
I needed this today. Paper is a constant struggle and it seems the paper always wins😩. Wishing you a blessed day from Texas.
I have a small spiral notebook 3x4", I keep on my counter for " to dos". I use it daily. I cross them out when done, and toss that piece of paper when complete. I have a bill folder and a file folder that I go through biweekly and pay bills, and file everything that same day. I've got a medium sized lock box with all the important papers inside, under lock and key- and it's portable. Very easy system 😃
My style. Keep it simple - but Effective. Thank you.
Just want to say thank you for saying that it's not wrong to be "externally motivated" or as you put it accountable to others. My husband is very accountable to himself and I've always felt like I'm somehow broken bc I'm just not like that, I need people in my life to help motivate me to do things! 😁
"The red folder" is such a marvellous idea. Once faced with a crisis, what is really 'vital' becomes horribly apparent. Being prepared before hand, is one thing less to deal with while flustered.
I love the idea of keeping non-to-do out of the to-do pile! I think this is why my paper is out of control. I also am constantly feeling like I’m missing something important. Thank you for the tips!
Thank you for this! 🤗I’m in the middle of my spring cleaning and I have about 8 bankers boxes of paper clutter. Ridiculous I know but I’m making a conscious effort to clean up my life.
I see this was 4 months ago. Did you make some progress. I have boxes and boxes also. I started and stalled and now looking for some motivation to start again.
Love your channel. Just found you! I’m working on reorganizing my home office after getting behind from caring for my father who was bedridden 16 months. He passed last month and I’m just getting energy to do this. I’ve always prided myself on being organized until this last year. My problem now is motivation. I’m literally exhausted. Mentally and physically. But, I might share what my mantra USED to be, and I’m slowly getting back to it. “Don’t put it down, put it away!” So, as I regroup again, I’ll be going back to that. Might help others here also. God bless you. I’m enjoying your videos. (Sorry I wrote a book)
I really like to pay regular bills immediately when they come in. For regular bills I just go to my bank app and pay them online. I can have them sent on a date in the future if I don’t want it to come out of my account immediately. Then I don’t have to think about it any more 😀
Yes definitely, this too is what I do.
I LOVE the idea of keeping the actual to-do’s separate from the rest of the stuff. I think that’s where the hangup is for me! Thank you so much for this!
I haven’t watched your channel for awhile, but I just love your content. I am always so inspired. Because of you my house is clutter-free, calm and organized. I just love your phrase “I don’t want to manage too much inventory!” That really resonated with me and allowed me to get rid of sooo many really “great” items I just never used. I just went through my house again last week and guess what? There was still more inventory I didn’t need. There are many other things I’ve learned from you and I just am so grateful! Thank you! I also wanted to say you look beautiful and I think you keep looking younger with each new video you make! ;). Keep up your great work, you are making an impact on the world. 💛
A big help is to call up companies that send you junk mail. Tell them you don't want it anymore. I tell them I order online and never look at their mailer. I also tell them I'm a hoarder and I can't cope with their trash. If they keep sending it, I will never order from them again. The mail has gone down 90%. Only Puritan keeps sending trash, and I haven't ordered from them.
I file the mail as it comes in...today advertisement trash, previous owner back in the mailbox, joann's for Sunday basket. The other day a bill came paid online right away and added to Sunday basket. I have loved the advice you have given over the years for paper clutter. Looking for a red folder for those vital items. We had a tornado last night (didn't touch down) but made me think of grabbing certain things just in case.
You are such an inspiration!! Thank you for all that you share with us. More importantly, THANK YOU for always ending with “I love you”… many have no one in their lives to hear that from and we all need to know we are LOVED.
Love the red file folder! There are some really good tips in the comment section. I find helpful having a one page list, in date order, of when bills are due such as various annual insurance/s (gives me a heads up in case I want time to shop around for better cover), expiration of warranties, mobile contract, internet provider, membership, even passport expiry dates!
@MEG That's a great idea - the one page list. I have an index cards with credit card due dates on it but it's easy to lose. Where do you keep your list? I think I'll put mine in my pay bills folder, I'll staple it to inside cover of the folder I think. My car insurance expires & next thing I know I've auto paid for another 6 months, so this list will be a great reminder like you said to maybe shop around before it expires. Thanks!!
@@sylviajimenez4084 I tape it to the inside lid of a boxfile, so every time I open the box it's a constant and easy reminder to glance at the list. Inside the boxfile I have clear folders that hold any papers I need to keep, and I find that easier to flip through instead of opening up cardboard file folders. I really like the red folder idea to keep birth certificates, passports, etc. One other thing I do is keep a photocopy (one page for all, not individual pages) of any debit/credit/membership cards and contact details in case they are liost/stolen and I need to cancel them in a hurry, that way I'm not flustered trying to think what cards I have.
I’m going to implement the Time Will Tell container immediately! That’s such a valuable tip! Thanks! A few years ago when I had to take over my dad’s paper work, I added additional files in his bin and mine for receipts for tax purposes. It has really helped me keep those organized so I’m one step ahead at tax time. I also have a stainless steel briefcase that’s water-proof and fire resistant with all of his and my important documents. I keep extra cash in there too, for grab and go emergencies. (We had 4 tornadoes touch down today!) Every Friday is paperwork day. Yuck 🤢 but it works. If I skip even one week, I’m overwhelmed again and stressed to the max.
Bring in the mail & directly walk to the recycle bin. Dump, dump, sort.
I JUST made an important papers accordion folder the other day. I’m so glad I did. It’s a load off my mind for if something should happen and we need to grab and go. I keep ours along with checkbooks, external hard drive, etc. in our fireproof bag. So that in case our house burns down, hopefully at least that stuff won’t. I’d really like to downsize our other files at some point too. I have already downsized a lot. We just have an ottoman with a file cube inside it. But tbh we don’t really need everything that’s in there. But that’ll come. One step at a time!
Totally wired with being accountable to others!!
I have friends who will all day long tell me I could start a business or do this thing that's needed in the community.
But here's the deal, I'm SO much better as a support person.
My Mom is too, and totally gets it.
I show up!
I don't always bring something, but I can clean and donate, run errands, make phone calls.
Help greet/direct people and look at a situation and figure out ways to help where others aren't.
I just don't want to be the person answering ALL the questions for everything, and figuring out what the next new thing could be.
Implement and improve, not Inspiration.
Love the red file - we do this. And also include account numbers, passwords, copies of wills, keys, etc. Just in case - that way if something happens to us, our person has all the info they need to handle our estate. Love your videos!!!
Fantastic content Dawn! And I was so glad to hear you mention the vital documents being kept in a safe even if it’s a small letter safe :-) also… It has been recommended to us to take photocopies of important documents, papers, passports even and keep them in a separate place from the originals :-) thanks again for sharing with us Dawn love your channel
I just wanted to THANK YOU for such a life changing video. I lost some important paperwork over the past week that made my husband say “something needs to change”. I ran to your channel to search for a paper clutter organization video. I bought everything you suggested in the video and now my mail doesn’t stress me out anymore! It took a while to set up but all the effort has been worth it because I know exactly where everything is. Thank you for making my paper clutter problem a non issue! You’re awesome! Keep it up
I'm more of a piler than a filer. So, I have an annual basket for all paperwork that just get piled like your time-will-tell. Then once a year, I weed out the trash and the rest goes in a shallow box with a lid that I keep for 7 years (1 box per year). Taxes go in an accordion file so it's always together for reference. I also have a long-term basket for mortgage and one for medical. To-dos go into my planner but I probably need a time-will-tell basket too!
I used to keep so much more than I needed, but after watching some of your previous paper clutter videos I really cut it back. Now, if it’s a “to do” I tuck it in the current week in my diary. I have a ring binder with plastic pockets for important docs, current insurances, most recent statements etc. I also have a letter rack as my ‘time will tell’ (I just go through it when it gets full). I don’t have kids or my own business plus most of my bills are paid online, so it’s really easy to keep on top of now. (But it took a long time to get there!!!)
Ahhhhh I hate paper clutter! The longer I watch you the more ruthless I have become! Thank you for helping me cut my clutter!
I read about a man in his 50s that started investing in stocks and real estate, then retired in 2years with over $6million, that right there is my utmost goal and I'd really appreciate clues and tips on how to reach this goal within 5years.
Everything is possible, it all depends on your consistency and discipline.
It is essential for you to have a mentor to keep you accountable
1. Limit your spending/cut off retail therapy
2.Put the extra cash towards investing in high yielding or steady investment.
3. Get a financial coach to guide through your investing goal. These might look simple but they require good amount of willpower, but through mentorship, I've been able to consistently grow my portfolio to $800K and I'm looking forward to retiring at 50 as well and I only wish I started up early. Goodluck
@@karynplumm878 That’s awesome if it is not asking too much, do you mind hooking me up with your coach?
@@andrewwiggins3190 *Stacey* *Lee* *Jamieson* is the coach helping me out, and you can book an appointment with her through her website, just look her up online tp get more info about her.
Organization is essential to happinesses. This vid has now become “ my favorite!” Thank you so much. ❤❤.
The biggest thing we have done in our house to reduce paper is to register with Do
Not Mail to reduce insurance & credit card offers, catalogs & other “Junk” mail from our mailbox.
It has helped so much - LESS paper coming in
As an Obliger, it feels SO GOOD to be understood!! I used to wonder what good it did to know that I was accountable to others but not myself... but after reading The Four Tendencies, it all made sense!
I love the Time Will Tell bin!! I can put things in there, guilt free, and when I go through it later, it's easy to let them go because I haven't touched them in weeks and didn't miss them! I have a fireproof safe for the most important papers. I also keep camera cards & flash drives in there when I'm not using them.
TYVM for all the great info AND the listing of books, supplies, and just everything. What a useful, workable, and pleasant way to address paper, and make handling it as fun as possible.
I’m so glad that I’ve gotten paper under control, for the most part! Thanks, Dawn!
My father recently passed. I use one of those red file folders to carry around all of the papers pertaining to his estate. There are a lot of papers that go along with a major life changing event and it's nice to be able to keep track of them all in one place. When I'm finished I will probably file the whole folder with my taxes and if I haven't needed it in 7 years shred it with my 2021 taxes.
Good morning, Dawn! The "time will tell" concept has been so helpful ☺ . Thank you ❤
"Time will tell" bin has been a game changer for our household for the last couple of years. Thanks for the idea.
Excellent system. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Dawn!! Love this- you've taught me so much about paper management. I use one big folder (like your red one for the important docs) and that folder has the main action centre, time will tell section and a section for the emergency and important documents.. that way I have them all in one place! Has massively helped me keep on top of our paper and I don't even need to deal with it that often :) :)
Thankyou for years of helping me in my life
I love your videos, even when some of it is a refresher or for the new questions from newbie’s, these still help me, get me back off my butt, and I’m instantly motivated. Thank you for doing what you do.
Coupons we always keep in the car so we never forget them.
I love the red folder!! I don’t struggle with paper clutter. And I’m pretty good with keeping the right papers but I love having a go folder with birth certificates etc!!
This is such a wonderful video!!
I love how it keeps in mind that we're all different (some lean more towards inner accountability, some towards outer accountability...some like it out on a wall, some like it hidden in a drawer...some scan, some prefer paper...).
And that a system requires a routine of keeping up with it, which could be paired with an enjoyable activity. It's very encouraging you've gotten paper under control to where it's not a big deal now!
I'd personally prefer the vital documents be in a fireproof, waterproof container. One less stressor and risk if there ever were a flood or fire and they weren't convenient to grab.
As someone who has traveled and moved a lot and likes to sometimes work on things not at home (coffee shops, library, friend's house...) or go camping, I really like how each piece of your paper system is a portable, light object that could say be put in a trunk of a car. As opposed to say files directly hung in a heavy filing cabinet.
I even like the idea of all the pieces being waterproof at least and bonus points if also fireproof but know that's a bit from an emergency-minded or anxious part of me. That's just a personal balance for everyone to find their own sweet spot on. Like for me even though it's at more risk of permanent loss, I prefer physical day planner over digital day planner.
One thing that helps me is to use Thursday night as the night to go through the house and put items away in their proper homes, get rid of the paper clutter etc. That way the house looks more tidy and that tidiness helps provide peace for the weekend.
So needed this to reset (and begin thinking again "I can do this!"). Love the new adds - very helpful!
This is so good! As a new housewife and mom I have started your paper systems already and they are so helpful! I'm hoping to learn and stay on top of paper now while I'm just starting and getting my house in order!
If you tell a kid, "You can play [insert their favorite activity] every "Sunday" (or whatever day) while I am working through this basket, so you're responsible for reminding me" - you better believe the kid will be up on your case reminding you like every 5 minutes, lol
I have watched this a few times. I run a decluttering page on fb and I am constantly asked how to handle paper clutter. I really like how this video is so easy to understand. I have shared this a few times with my group.
She has a few videos about sorting and maintaining papers and they are game changing.
Perfect timing! My husband and I were just going through some of the piles of papers we have. Yes, a system is desperately needed for this household....😑
Thank you for continuing to address this issue! 🙌🥰 I feel like so many other areas of my life are good and well under control, EXCEPT THIS! 😩🤯😑 I keep watching your videos on this subject and I think I can make changes and then I don't. 🙈😔😳🤦🏽♀️
So, like many other things maybe repetition is the price of learning with heavy doses of grace and understanding! You are such a blessing! God bless you! 🙏💜
That was sooo cute…”it wasn’t their fault” holding the file folders. I love her! She is speaking directly to our accountability (or lack thereof). I have a system to redo, then make myself keep up!!!
A shredder helped me!!! Also, letting go of keeping a lot of paperwork that I thought I needed, but didn't really. If I feel like I might need it, I take a pic or scan it before getting rid of it.
Dawn - thanks for introducing me to Blinkist. I LOVE it!
Good afternoon! Its so important to keep papers contained. Thanks for sharing this great motivational video!
I love the Red Folder & Time Will Tell basket ideas!
We reduced our paper clutter by going paperless for bills, statements etc. Plus we go straight to the recycle bin after we've picked up the mail and drop in the flyers and junk mail. I am considering stopping delivery of our city's free newpaper that is delivered once a week since we read the news online.
My “red folder” is a burgundy binder with plastic sleeves! Haha I’ve got mostly the same files on my desk in a small rack AND a single plastic file box like yours. Very validating! 😄👍
This has been so helpful! I ordered a red expanding file - love that idea! Paper has been my organizing nemesis but I’m trying to keep up with it more regularly now.
Great video, watching it again! I have used several of your tips for years and they have really impacted our home. Ty!
i have a "time will tell" folder glued to the side of our paper recycling bin (indoor). every time i am emptying the bin i go through the folder and get rid of the items that the "time told they are garbage". out of sight and close to its final destination. but close to grab for reference if needed.
Thanks for always being a light for the Lord. You definitely have the gift of encouragement.
In our home we have a small file cabinet for the essentials (legal documents, taxes, insurance, receipts, etc.) and a binder. The binder has 4 sections
1. my to-do
2. my husband's to-do
3. in process (ex. A check that is in process)
4. Waiting (ex. a bill that is waiting to be cleared by insurance)
Your gentle encouragement in this is so sweet. Thank you.
Yes to all of this! It's made such a big difference for me! Also the memory box in a easy to get place so you can get to it with no problem.
I love your channel and this content…and I’m a twin from Minnesota too, and can relate to so much of your experiences! 😊 The only thing for paper clutter that has actually worked for me is to combine it with getting the mail…where I immediately sift through and pull out the junk to put in the trash, pull out/file the important stuff, and set aside the time will tell items. What I HAVE to do for myself for bills, is then pull out my phone, log into my banking app, and input the bills into my Bill Pay schedule and setting it up there right away for payment. After that I file the paper, if I need it, into a 12-month accordion file and put each bill into the month it relates to. Bank statements and tax docs/returns get filed behind “December” for the year, and in January, I toss all the bills from the year and file my tax returns into long-term storage. And I keep this accordion file in my command center in our garage entry hall with our calendar, keys, etc. It’s the only thing I’ve found for me is to just take 2-3 minutes whenever I get a bill to schedule it IMMEDIATELY and then put the paper in the file folder…or trash it. Then there’s nothing to hang on to. I find myself avoiding it and making it bigger in my mind than it is if I don’t. Plus, I’m logging into my accounts more often and more aware of my spending than just once each week. But I love how you do your groupings and will be adjusting my files closer to that! Thanks, keep the content coming! 💞
My plan for OLD piles of paper that are overwhelming:
1. SORT by YEAR
- Taxes separate
2. Have SHRED & RECYCLE bins handy
3. Can bundle w a rubber band & set in back of cabinet if it needs to be saved.
Will need to fine-tune while working but need to keep it simple.
Dawn, Thank you so very much for going over paper clutter again. I have an entire room full of paper clutter that I just don't know what to do -- until now. You are so right about the system might not be bad but i don't have a time to work the system. You have encouraged me to try again. Thank you so much!
This is great! After watching your earlier video a couple of years ago, I greatly simplified my filing system and I love it! Even after a few weeks of neglect it works much better than anything I tried in the past. Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us.
Oh my gosh …I’m so excited!!! I got it to print!! THANK YOU SO MUCH ❤
We got a version of the red folder but budgeted a little extra to get one that is fireproof after watching someone talk about losing everything in a runaway fire. Thought I would share in case it helps :) Love your channel
Hi. I'm interested in the red fire folder. I was wondering where I could get on.
@@beth8037 I got mine online. I just googled fire proof paper storage
Dawn, Love your red folder and “Time Will Tell” basket! Great ideas!! What keeps me on track with incoming paper is going through and handling the mail when as it comes in each day! Paying your bills on line automatically, with no paper bills, helps a lot as well! I will definitely add a couple of these systems! You are the best Dawn!
I enjoyed this video! I created a Time Will Tell slot (part of a hanging paper holder) per your suggestion 8 months ago and it has been life changing in regards to paper clutter in our house! I also have the other pieces you mentioned and paper clutter isn't an issue any more! Thanks Dawn!
Gosh, love you and your awesome ‘Take Your House Back’ crew of two! Dawn, Dana and Cas… you’re all instrumental in simplifying my life. You ladies rock!
I added a "Sunday Basket" to my life after seeing your earlier video. I found a pretty small French wine crate with rubber feet and put in pretty colorful file folders. I admit I don't go through it once a week (bills come in and paid online) but all my papers are kept in 1 place. I even have a folder for my time will tell stuff inside the box. I put a couple small organizations buckets to place a small notebook, pen/pencil, marker and scissors so they are always within reach. We recently had a international move and I was going nuts because my basket has been in transit for the past 4 months so I recycled an old magazine holder and plain folders to get my life back together. Amazing how quickly I got dependent on it.
For the last few months, inspired by Dana K White, I've been taking each piece of paper there now. I deal with each piece of paper immediately. It's great! I enjoy not having a pile to sort through every week. I really like the idea of a red file for very important documents. I'll definitely implement this next ❤️
I have learned so much over the years about myself, how I function, how I can make things easier etc. from various books, YT channels, professional organisers, minimalists etc. I'm still learning and still have a looong way to go and loads of decluttering to do... My tendency is that of a rebel combined with an organisation style of a cricket (as per @Clutterbug Cas' categories), with a few nuances here and there.
I have a paper tray where I put various papers that I don't need to take any action on like receipts, papers to file etc. Using Dana K. White's container concept, I go through it on a regular basis or when it starts to get full 🤓
One very valuable thing I learned many years ago from a professional organiser specialised in paper clutter on YT (Kacy Paide) is to not wait until you have the pretty folders, the label maker etc. before you start organising your papers. We sooo want things to look pretty and perfect that we can put off the organising until we have the nice containers. Use what you have on hand. That way you get an idea of the volume you're actually dealing with (after having decluttered, minimised and used the container concept as a whole of course 😉). You may end up getting fewer or smaller containers, ones that truly fit your specific needs, and you may end up realising that you don't need that fancy label maker 😊
I love this! This weekends project will be going through all of our papers and tossing what we don’t need. The thing I do to as mail comes in I bring it right to the kitchen to go through it and immediately toss things I know we won’t need.
Dawn, I love your simple, straightforward approach to all things! You give practical advice and explain the why for those who have struggled in the past! You are such an inspiration! I have been a fan for almost two years! Thank you! ❤️