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 Q My desk is buried
in paper. How can I get more organized?
A You can control those exploding file racks that are taking over your workspace —
you just need a routine system of processing information so it doesn’t overwhelm you. I advise professionals
to believe in my FAITH system, which stands for file, act, in progress, toss and hand off.
File it. Anything that requires filing should immediately be filed or go into your
designated“to be filed” spot. Save only those items you have a legitimate need for.
Act. Create an action file for all of your recurring professional tasks that require
personal action.
In progress. This is the place where you can temporarily hold paperwork that defies
classification or doesn’t fit into any of your existing action categories, such as plane tickets, directions
to a client location or even a birthday card. When used properly, this file ensures that nothing will be
forgotten or remain inactive indefinitely.
Toss. If the paper is of no interest, toss it. However, in today’s environment where
identity theft is prevalent, I recommend using a shredder (some models can even handle credit cards, CDs and
DVDs) or a shredding service to ensure confidential information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
Hand off. If the information is more relevant for a colleague, pass it along to him or
her and minimize your piles and responsibilities.
Monica Ricci is a certified professional organizer and speaker who partnered with
Office Depot to help people streamline their offices and unclutter their homes (www.officedepot.com/getorganized)
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