 By STEVE BREWER Scripps Howard News Service June 22, 2005
When you work at home you must be able to retrieve information without a lot of wasted time and effort. Every minute counts. And if you work alone, you have no one else to blame when stuff goes missing. A proper filing system not only keeps data handy, it also serves as a "track record" of your home-based business, from its optimistic launch to its eventual, unsurprising demise. Use file labels that are easy to change so you can chart the bathtub-drain geometry of this downward spiral. The best way to keep files organized is to use a simple alphabetical system. Here are some suggestions for labeling folder tabs: Assets - Usually a very slim file. Business cards - Collect these from everyone you meet while "networking." They make dandy toothpicks. "B" also stands for "Bankruptcy," but that comes later. Computer - Outdated manuals, voided warranties and backup disks kept in a folder stained with tears. Debts - This file can grow so large it needs its own drawer. Expenses - Everything the Internal Revenue Service might ever allow you to deduct, up to and including psychiatric treatment. Financial plan - Typically an empty folder. Goals - Can also be labeled "Goose chase." Or "Grasping at straws." Health - Leave extra room for medical bills, etc. This file tends to grow as stress increases. Investments - Or "Idiotic decisions." Junk - A catchall, the last stop before the "round file." Keepsakes - Awards, letters from satisfied clients, mementos of the good times. Thumb through this file whenever you're severely depressed. Leases - Folder makes a giant sucking sound whenever it's opened. Marketing plan - See "Wishful thinking." Newsletters - These make good kindling. Out of date - The letter "O" can also stand for "Overdue" or "Overly optimistic." Profits - Hahahahaha. Quacks - See "Health." Resumes - It's smart to keep these handy and updated. You could be looking for a "real job" any minute now. Supplies - "S" could stand for "Successes" or "Satisfaction," but "Supplies" are a sure thing. Taxes - File should contain two business cards: one for accountant, one for bail bondsman. Upcoming - Not a reference to your lunch but to pending events. Easy to change this one to "Useless" or "Unemployment benefits." Vehicle - Leave room for a fat file because it will be a long time before you can replace your old beater. Wishful thinking - Scratch out label and replace with "What was I thinking." Then "Wasted life." Then "Whiskey." X - You never need this folder unless you go into xylophone sales. So it can be used as a place to hide overdue bills from your spouse. Youth - Also see "M" for "Misspent" or "L" for "Lost." Zippo - Contains the lighter you'll need to set your filing system ablaze.
Contact him at ABQBrewer(at)aol.com
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