If you have a lot of computer folders that need the same organizational structure you might consider creating a template folder.  For example I have a standard layout I use for the folder to keep track of client information. This includes folders for billing information, contracts, notes, etc. I created a folder in my Clients folder called z_template.  This makes it stay at the bottom of the list.  In that folder I setup my layout.  I usually name my folders with an underscore beneath them so all of my standard files stay at the top--regardless of what else ends up in the folder. When I start a folder for a new client, I simply copy everything from my template into their folder and … [Read more...]

Some productivity experts suggest that you shouldn't use hanging files because they take longer to just whip out a new folder for something.  They suggest using regular plan folders, so you can grab one and make a new folder when ever it is needed. This makes sense, but I think I've reached the best compromise with my hybrid approach.I use hanging folders for major categories and then put regular folders in for subcategories.  For example, I might have "Education" as a hanging folder and then individual normal folders for each year or each class, depending on how I'm organizing things.  I have a hanging folder for "Taxes" and then a regular folder for 2006, 2007, and 2008. By using … [Read more...]

I like simple things that save me time or make my life easier. I've compiled a list of 5 simple items I use on a regular basis that make things just a little bit easier. Self inking stamp - It is a simple thing, but having a self inking stamp for signing checks and putting return addresses on envelopes is a huge time saver. They don't have to cost a lot of money, but I would suggest avoiding the ultra cheap ones (less than $10). I started out with the cheapest I could find and it eventually fell apart. My second one was still under $20, but much better constructed. Smart Wallet - I recently replaced my wallet with this money clip. It holds bills and 4 credit cards. I've been very happy … [Read more...]

Before my wife and I went to Mexico last October, we made a list of all the important numbers in our lives. We had credit card numbers, telephone numbers for credit card companies, passport numbers, bank account numbers, insurance policies, retirement accounts, drivers license numbers, online banking passwords etc. We wrote these all up on the computer, printed out a single copy and deleted the computer file. We then gave it to my parents to keep in a safety deposit box. If anything were to happen to one of us or if our wallets were stolen, there is a single place we can go to get all the important numbers we need. This took us a very small amount of time to put together, but if our … [Read more...]

After writing the post about 12 Tips For an Organized Desk, several people were interested in seeing my setup. I've tried to map my description back to my page of tips. I'm interested in any comments or suggestions. Am I overlooking something obvious that could make things work even better?   When I graduated from college in 1998 I started looking for a good desk and chair. I found these and they have been my main workstation in the US ever since. While the glass tops make these a little hard to move, it is offset by the fact that the frames come apart, so the entire thing can be packed fairly flat against the wall in a moving van. It took me a very long time to find the chair. … [Read more...]