Hmmm…I had to think about this one for a while, but the letter “N” works for Build a Household “Notebook”. You can use either an accordion folder or restyle a three-ring binder into command central. The best way to create this is to go through a recently created pile of paper and mail that you need to take action on but don’t know what to do with or put them. This will help you recognize the action files that you need to create for your command central. Label each one with a verb that best describes the action required. For example:
1) To Do Now. This includes items that you can not go to bed without completing that day!
2) Calendar Entry. Items that need to be entered into your calendar.
3) Call. Store phone call messaged until you have the time to return them. This call also be a file to “capture” phone numbers and addresses to record.
4) Coupons. Pizza, restaurant menus, etc.
5) Data Entry. Items that need to be entered into your computer.
6) Errands. File to hold shopping lists, coupons and items you need to get and then make one trip.
7) Family. Have a file for each family member to keep activities, permission slips and anything relevant to that person.
8) Online. Websites you want to visit or emails to read.
9) Order. Keep confirmations of orders here until it comes or things that you want to order.
10) Receipts. Keep receipts for clothing and other items you aren’t sure that you’ll keep. Go through this monthly and purge.
Remember, you can create this to fit your lifestyle and needs but it is a great way to pull all of those piles together that are hanging around the house!
Happy Organizing! Bridges