5 Easy Steps to Finally Organise Your Paperwork (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s be honest - dealing with paperwork isn’t exactly thrilling. Bills, forms, receipts, school notices, random scribbles from five years ago… it piles up quickly and can make even the most organised among us want to light a match.
But don’t worry - I’ve got you. Here are five simple, no-fuss steps to tame the paper chaos and finally feel on top of things again.
✨ Step 1: Gather It All in One Spot
First things first: collect all the loose paperwork scattered around your home. That means kitchen counters, handbags, the dining table, even that drawer you avoid. It might feel messy now, but trust me - it’s easier to sort when it’s all in one place.
Pro tip: Use a laundry basket or a tote to scoop it all up. Paper mountain? Conquered.
✨ Step 2: Do a Quick First Pass
Before you get too deep, do a fast sort. Make three piles:
Recycle/Shred (junk mail, old invites, expired brochures)
Keep & Action (bills, forms, current documents)
Keep & File (important papers like insurance, ID copies, warranties)
Don’t overthink it. If it’s clearly rubbish - out it goes. If it needs attention - set it aside. We’ll deal with the rest in the next steps.
✨ Step 3: Create a “To-Do” Paper Tray
Now take your Keep & Action pile and pop it in a tray, folder or document box labelled To Action. This becomes your go-to spot for things you need to deal with — like forms to fill in, bills to pay or school notes to return.
The secret? Check it weekly. Set a recurring reminder and make it part of your Sunday reset or Friday wind-down.
✨ Step 4: Set Up a Simple Filing System
You don’t need a fancy colour-coded cabinet (unless that sparks joy for you!). A few broad categories in labelled folders or an accordion file will do just fine. Try headings like:
Household
Health
Financial
Kids/School
Insurance
Work
Keep it simple. If you have too many categories, you’ll avoid using it - and that’s when chaos creeps back in.
✨ Step 5: Make It Easy to Maintain
The trick to staying organised? Make the system as easy as possible to use. Keep your “to-do” tray somewhere visible. Have a shredder or recycling bin nearby. Do a 10-minute paper check-in once a week.
If you fall off the wagon, that’s okay - just pick it back up. Progress over perfection, always.
🎉 You Did It!
Paper clutter? Sorted. Give yourself a high five (and maybe a coffee or glass of wine) - because your paperwork is no longer running the show.
And if you’re still feeling stuck or want help setting up a filing system that actually works for you - you know where to find me. I offer hands-on organising and virtual coaching to help you clear the clutter and create systems that stick.
Ready to finally feel on top of things?
Book Your Free Clarity Call with Me to Get Started
