 October is the fiscal year end for many businesses. Along with wistful thoughts of another year gone by, for many of us it's also time to wrap things up and reorganize before a new year begins. Here is a practical guide for wrapping up your year end. Review current files. If you're like most people, you have files bulging with additional background information, extraneous emails, and just-in-case spreadsheets. Use folders for essential documents and sub-folders for non-critical items. This keeps papers from jumbling and keeps you from fumbling during meetings. Cull your filing cabinet. Where do you put the weekly articles your boss gives you or the handout from last month's sales meeting? No doubt shoved into a file somewhere, but will you ever look at them again? Take a cold, hard look at your files and shred or recycle what you don't need. Consider scanning documents into your computer to free up valuable drawer space. And while you're rummaging through your file cabinet, neaten up by replacing dog-eared folders and using box-bottom files for overstuffed hanging files. Reorganize your desk drawers. Empty each drawer, wipe it out, then create a place for everything. Devote a drawer or section of a drawer to a specific task - e.g, writing supplies to include pens, pencils, note pads, clips, and markers. Donate. Sure, those self-inking rubber stamps with the smiley face seemed like a great idea at the time, but have they outlived their cuteness? Now may be the time to donate them, and you may even get a tax deduction too. Mark the dates - but only in one calendar! Choose a single calendar that works best for you whether that's electronic or paper. Use a different color ink for personal and business dates. Delete electronic files. While you're organizing, don't forget your computer. Trash out-of-date drafts and duplicate files. That goes for email too. Graphics files and presentation slides as attachments can take up a significant amount of space. Performing these simple steps will make year-end wrap up a breeze and get you organized and productive for the upcoming year. | 
