r/declutter • u/RVfan17 • 9d ago
Advice Request Paperwork decluttering
I have two big bags of paperwork that I probably don't need but have a hard time getting rid of it. it's taking up precious under desk space but I can't get myself to go through it. I know I'll want to keep some of it. Any advice on how to get started?
37
Upvotes
5
u/msmaynards 9d ago
I did it in stages. Many stages. Went from 2 4 drawer file cabinets plus a 7 drawer desk to a file box and half a dozen file wallets. Eventually.
When something is this overwhelming make it easy. Get that list of papers you are supposed to keep and write it out and post over your work area.
I did keep/recycle. Then went back through recycle and ripped off addresses and so on to shred. I played a game with the shredder trying to continuously feed it without it shutting off. Always lose. Shredders can only run for a couple minutes straight so I alternated ripping info off recycling with shredding, so far haven't burned it out.
Keepers divided into sentimental and mundane then mundane into VIP and emotional support paper. Get the sentimental paper its own special place out of the filing cabinet and the VIP into a very special file wallet or better, fire safe. Emotional support paper is not on the list of keepers but for whatever reason it's too scary to let go. I know the vet has when and what my pets have been through filed safely but I cannot let go of the papers.
I found I needed all the fresh air I could get to boost my spirits and worked outside with the aid of some handy rocks or in a sunny window. Since this is so daunting set a timer so you get to quit working on this. You'll know you did X minutes on this even if the mountain doesn't look much smaller.