If you’re like us, you probably have a drawer filled with miscellaneous paper goods that will be just right to use…some day. But with Facebook birthday wishes being the new norm, we’re sending less “snail mail” every year.
However, any time the CMFTO team goes into a client’s home to help them organize, declutter, or pack, we inevitably find a designated drawer or box filled with blank stationery and cards. (It seems we’re all a little nostalgic for the days when we received notes in the mail from friends and families!)
So, what do we do with all those cards and papers? The good news: if you make a plan, you can still use the majority of them. We often suggest that our clients organize their cards and stationery to make everything more readily available. To begin, you’ll want to have manila folders or shallow boxes at the ready. Next, sort the stationery from the cards.
Then you’re ready for the next steps:
If the stationery still has your correct name and address on it, you can use it for correspondence.
If it’s outdated, you have two options:
The easiest way to deal with cards is to sort them into categories and store them in manila folders. The most common categories for cards include:
Once sorted, these cards can be stored flat in a shallow box or vertically in a file sorter. Either way, it will be much easier to find a card next time you need one, without having to run out to the store.
Finally, if you don’t want to keep your cards and stationery, you can recycle (be sure to check your local recycling rules) or donate them. Many organizations accept unused greeting cards, including retirement centers, women’s shelters, daycare centers, and churches. St. Jude’s Children’s Ranch also has a card-recycling program.
Regardless of what you choose to do with your stationery and cards, hopefully this week’s clutter challenge has you thinking about connecting more with friends and family, both near and far.
All my best,
Claudia