How many “To Do Paperwork” boxes do you need?

One. Though it doesn’t have to be a box. The idea is that you designate one place — folder, drawer, box, basket, whatever — to put all the paper items that need to be dealt with in some way: paid, filed away, signed, reimbursed, or responded to. A box with a lid works really well, especially if it’s a super cool one like Queen Elizabeth’s. It doesn’t have to be red, although that’s the color of the box that is presented to the Queen each and every morning of her life, no matter where she is in the world, even when she’s on vacation, or sick, or in her 90s. 

Bills that come in the mail? Throw in the box. Receipts that need filed? In the box. Insurance paperwork that needs filled out? Box. 

Then, set a specific day and time to deal with the box: I chose once a week, on Monday mornings. I figure there’s not much that can’t wait a week. Then, stick to this plan: Monday morning is Monday morning. 

WHY: Everything paper-wise is in one place that you will go through on a regular basis. 

HOW: Find a box, or folder, or basket. Put it in a location close to where you pay bills, file things, etc. Choose a day and time to go through the box, then stick to it!

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