AboutJan Hayner Expertise I can answer any questions on Home organizing, file and paper management, organizing for parents, kids, senior citizens and on housekeeping and cleaning solutions.
Experience I have been a Professional Organizer for 9 years, I am considered an expert in my field on the internet and have written several informational books on organizing.
Organizations I am an active member of Faithful Organizers (An International Association of Christian based Professional Organizers, a past member of NAPO (the National Association of Professional Organizers)a member of an association called Women in Management, a member of Money Smart Wisconsin-Sheboygan and was a business owner for over 25 years.
Education/Credentials A high school graduated a the rest of my learning capablilities came from making a lot of mistakes in my lifetime and learning from all of them.
Question I am having trouble organizing incoming mail and kids papers from school etc. It comes through the back door and lands on the kitchen counter which I must clean off constantly! I have a little computer desk in the kitchen corner but do not have much desk space. If I had a system where I could quickly place papers as they arrive it would help. I have papers flying everywhere! Thanks
Answer Hi Sandy;
I commend you for having a 'desk area' so handy, the kitchen is the heart of the home and a great place to have your work area.
You don't say if the 'kids papers' are something that needs immediate attention.
If it needs immediate attention:
It is best to go through the kids school bags and check them as the kids are doing their homework, this way you can sign papers, send money or what ever is necessary and resubmit to the school bag immediately.
If all papers can wait to be looked at:
I suggest that you have 2 manilla envelopes or folders that are accessible to you at all times (not hidden in a drawer). A good place to put these if you lack room is on the inside cupboard door above the telephone or inside a binder that is kept next to your computer monitor.
Label one 'Kids' and the other 'Weekly Correspondence'.
You already know that both of these files will need additional attention so there isn't any need for further labeling.
As the mail and papers come in, you will add them to their individual file and you can address them when you have the time. Remember not to let them pile up, once a week purging of these is essential.
