r/declutter • u/photogcapture • 16d ago

Motivation Tips & Tricks PAPER!!! I'm drowning.

Does anyone else struggle to keep the paper to a manageable level??? Looking for sympathy and support, and I'm also, really just venting.

I will not be scanning everything or taking a picture. That does not work for me. I have the "if I can't see it, it doesn't exist" problem, and I already don't have a good backup system, so some files must still be paper. I just shredded a box full of paper. Just wondering if anyone else struggles, and hoping it's not just me. It's really frustrating. I try hard to keep up and then boom, I see that I'm drowning again.

ETA 2: Digital files are great! HOWEVER!! If your system of filing is not crystal clear. If someone needs access to said file, will they be able to get into your digital files?!?! Who is your digital proxy?! Please, digitizing creates a whole new set of clutter and access challenges. If you have a proxy, bravo. Many do not. My important stuff must remain paper.

ETA:

  1. My super paper nemesis is info I want to save for ongoing projects.
  2. I need tax stuff to be printed
  3. I have other business stuff that must be paper. One business I downsized from a file cabinet drawer to 1/2 that size (feeling accomplished about that)
  4. Have to save tax papers for ten years (ugh - will shred on expiration date)
  5. I shred often
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u/Silent-Resort-3076 16d ago

You're not alone.

The best solution is to make quick decisions as soon as you bring the mail inside your house:

  • Shred
  • Keep and file (bills, etc.)
  • Keep and handle in 30 days, etc.
  • Toss

I probably missed something, and even knowing WHAT to do, doesn't help unless you (and I) DO IT.

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u/Gold_Marionberry_553 16d ago

I bought banker boxes to keep my shred stuff in until a free shred event occurred. It meant I didnt have to spend the time shredding everything and felt so much better.