Paper Clutter Solutions for a Clearer Mind

Before the year wraps up, take a moment to tackle one of the most persistent sources of clutter: paper. It sneaks in daily — mail, receipts, school papers, and notes — but a few simple systems can make it manageable.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Sort & Simplify: Create three piles — Keep, Shred, Recycle. Be honest about what you truly need.

2. Mail Zone: Designate one spot for incoming mail and sort it immediately — no more “to be opened later” piles.

3. File by Function: Use labeled folders or digital scans for important categories (taxes, medical, home).

4. Go Digital: Switch to e-statements and paperless billing where possible to reduce incoming clutter.

Tackling paper now means you’ll head into the holidays — and the new year — with a lighter load and aclearer space.