Bringing order to the home office can be a bit more challenging than other parts of the house because it involves all those stacks of paper!  And each stack may represent dozens, even hundreds, of decisions – the ultimate nightmare scenario for those with ADD.  So start with a mini-breathing exercise and let’s go to work.

Before starting to clean out your office it is a good idea to begin with some basic preparations. 

1.  Create a Mail Sorting Station:  This is essential for reducing future clutter.  Start with a KISS - Keep It Simple, Sweetie!  Here is all you need:

• Pick a spot near the current landing spot for mail.  If it typically ends up on a kitchen counter, then sort your mail there.  If there is no particular place now, decide on one.  It should be near the door where you bring the mail in. 
  
• Shred Bag (paper sack, etc.) for items to shred.  Always shred credit card applications.  These can be used to obtain a credit card in your name!  Also shred anything that has your social security number on it. 
  
• Trash Can or Recycle Bin for all other unwanted mail.  If you have internet access, throw away all catalogs.  You can always order on-line.    
  
• Bills/Action Items Open each bill, throw out all inserts, and replace the bill and return envelope to the original envelope.  Take these straight to your Bill Pay Basket and put in the appropriate Due Date envelope. 

Sorting the mail is a 2-minute-or-less task, so do it as soon as you walk in the door.

 

2.  Create a Bill Pay Basket:  Again, KISS.  The simpler it is the more likely you are to use it.  You will need this even if you use on-line bill pay. 

• Basket or Bin big enough to hold the following supplies but small enough to be carried easily.
  
• Supplies to keep in your Bill Pay Station at all times:
  1. Stamps
  2. Blank Envelopes
  3. Return Address Labels
  4. Small Calculator
  5. Pens & pencils
  6. Small Stapler & Staples
  7. 4 Large, Sturdy Envelopes labeled: 
     • Pay by 10th
     • Pay by 25th
     • Credit Card Receipts
     • Paid
  8. Plastic zip bag or similar transparent bag to hold Items 1-6

If you take these two steps, you will find it easier to follow the tips for the upcoming weeks. 

Coming Up:  Next week we will look at “Paying Bills & Taxes”.  Then we will begin de-cluttering your office.  The week of 3/26 we will review some filing systems that work for those with ADD.