OCD (Outta Control and Disorganized)

I have a tendency to be pretty OCD about some things. Not everything, just some things. For example, my jewelry has been laying in a giant tangled mass on my dresser for at least 3 years. I know out of courtesy I should clean it up so husband doesn't have to look at that mess in his room, but I just don't care to have a jewelry "system". On the other hand, it drives me absolutely crazy when things are left out on the coffee table, or when my schedule is thrown off unexpectedly.

In the past, I've tried to be a little more OCD about my office and my life management (Is that a thing?), but I never had the energy toward getting things under control once and for all. Since I was single, it was no big deal. Now that I'm married, there are dual incomes, a joint checking account, bills to pay that are new to me, a new banking system, insurance information, a future to plan for, and someone to communicate this all to. I should mention, since I'm pretty good with money, and like taking care of finances, I am the current designated banker in the family. Husband still needs to know what's up, so it's time to get it together.

I mentioned in my Top 20 post that one of the projects I want to tackle this year is organizing our files and paperwork. Within that big goal are many smaller goals to simplify everyday living. I hate for it so sounds so regimented, but I need some procedures and systems in place so I'm not constantly thinking about how much money is left in the checking account, if the bills got paid on time, and why I can't find that post it note I just had in my hand two seconds ago in the pile of papers on the desk. It makes my brain hurt.

Since I heart lists, here's a (bulleted!) list of problems I'd like to solve in the office:

• Mail ends up in a massive pile on the desk, coffee table, dining table, front porch floor, etc.
• I'm thinking some kind inbox bins and a recycling bin just for paper. I'm also hoping to invest in a shredder at some point. Going paperless will ultimately help, but that brings me to my next problem...

• Important emails get lost in my inbox.
• I use Gmail because, let's face it, Google is pretty amazing. Google is so amazing that they've set up an inbox sorting system within Gmail. I just need to figure it out. And I may need to unsubscribe to several newsletters I never read. That would probably help too.

• Cash ends up in a big ol' wad in my purse.
• We're reverting to the envelope system to curtail some of our frivolous spending. That means I'll need to carry cash or a checkbook to the grocery store, out on dates, and places like medical offices and the car shop. I've seen some nifty envelope system wallets, but they're pretty pricey. I'm hoping to make my own. 

• There's a six inch tall pile of paperwork and a filing box wasting space in the shelving unit. 
• I was going to set up my files, then I got engaged and realized it'd be pointless since I'd have to incorporate all of husband's paperwork soon anyway. So there the pile sits. I need to get on that.

• It's a pain in the butt to get into the closet.
• Between two litter boxes (my kitty likes to have options), a mirror that has yet to be hung, and a door that opens toward the closet, the little space there is to stand and open the closet door has become the Bermuda Triangle. You're lucky if you get out alive. In my dream world there's kitty litter boxes built into a bench inside the closet which is painted or wallpapered something fantastic. Maybe. Someday.

Anyone have any suggestions on how to make all of my OCD office dreams come true? I'd love to hear 'em. Also, you can make suggestions via Pinterest now too. Tag @Megan Monroe Makeshift if you'd like me to check something out.