TL;DR
A reader juggling several months-long projects asked how to keep them from spilling into each other. Kathi’s answer depends on how you work: if you work in sequence, give each project its own file drawer with the same set of hanging folders; if you work visually, give each project its own basket or bin so you can see it.
Dear Kathi,
I work with several projects at a time in my home based office. Typically, each project is in progress for 3-4 months. In the beginning, each project is easy to manage. As it grows, the project becomes extremely large and squeezes into every empty space available and gets mixed in with my other pending projects. Knowing where one begins and another ends is a challenge. How can I keep each project in it’s own space?
Miles, Leucadia
Miles,
You have a few options. Choose the method that best reflects how you function on a daily basis.
If you are a systematic project developer and usually work in sequence, try organizing each project into a filing system. Keep each project contained within it’s own file drawer.
Develop a file folder system and create the same tabs for every drawer/project. For example, each drawer can be divided into separate hanging folders labeled project outline, pending, research, resources, and completed. Use whatever headings clearly define the stages of each project.
If you work visually, a file system might not be the best way to organize your projects. Visually oriented people tend to rebel against filing folders into drawers. Out of sight, out of mind is a reality for visual thinkers.
Try this option: contain each project in a basket or small bin. Each bin can have separate dividers, folders or envelopes similar to the file cabinet system. These bins will enable you to see each project as it develops without the necessity of opening a drawer.
Both methods are effective. Choose the one that best matches your style and work process.
Kathi is a professional organizer, image consultant and event planner based in San Diego California.
Please submit your questions to: [email protected].
San Diego Professional Organizer
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Frequently asked questions
How do I keep several projects from getting mixed together?
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Give every project its own contained space. If you usually work in sequence, keep each project in its own file drawer, and create the same set of hanging folders in every drawer, such as project outline, pending, research, resources and completed.
What if I don’t like filing things away in drawers?
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Visual thinkers often rebel against file drawers, because out of sight really is out of mind for them. Contain each project in a basket or small bin with its own dividers, folders or envelopes, so you can see every project as it develops without opening a drawer.
Which project organizing method is better?
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Both work. Choose the one that best matches your style and work process: file drawers if you work in sequence, baskets or bins if you work visually. Use whatever folder headings clearly define the stages of your projects.
