This guest post is from Beth Flarida, owner of Get It Together.
It is so easy to just click the 'save' button and move on to our next project. But what happens when you need to find that document again?
The first tip I can give you to help you find your files when your looking for them is to name them properly in the first place.
We always think we'll understand the abbreviated name we use. We don't. Not one of us.
When it comes time to find it again we haven't got a clue what all those abbreviated names mean. It is important to spend the few extra seconds it takes to come up with the correct name in the first place.
Really decide what the document is. Give it the right name. Pretend you will not be looking for the file yourself but will send a monkey to look for it. The monkey has to be able to find the file. Make it that easy!
This also applies to downloads or documents you receive from someone else. Don't delay! Rename it something that makes sense to you before you file it. You don't have to keep the file named whatever they named it. Name it so YOU can find it!
Next you have to find out where you put the file. Again, a few seconds when the file is created can make all the difference.
Just as you have categories in your file drawers (I hope) you can have categories on the computer for your computer files. You can make folders and have sub-folders within your main folders.
When you save the file, pay attention to where it is going. You are offered to opportunity to 'browse' for the right place to put the file. I beg you to take that opportunity!
If the correct folder for filing it does not exist, MAKE IT! Again, using names that make perfect sense to you.
This can apply to every type of file you have:
Graphics
Documents
Articles
Photos
Financials
They can all have their own folder right on your desktop. You will always know where to look for what you need. You will save tons of time and be so much more productive.
Think of all the hours you waste in a week looking for things! When you have an understanding of your filing system you will have those hours available to you for whatever you want. Imagine the possibilities!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Beth Flarida is the owner of Get It Together. She is a Certified Professional Organizer, productivity coach & efficiency expert for businesses since 1991. Visit Beth on the web at http://www.getbeth.com and sign up for her free weekly newsletter, Answers From The Organizer®. Then claim your free 20-minute Problem Solving Strategy Session and jumpstart your organizational goals!
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