Over the past months and years, as we have completed many projects, we may have worksheets, notes, and submitted reports that we can discard to get ready for a more productive and efficient new year.
Streamlining for efficiency
As another year draws to a close and we prepare for 2026 and its opportunities, this is a great time to streamline our processes and data retention. Let’s eliminate what we don’t need to retain for the journey forward.
When was the last time we accessed certain files? Is it likely we will ever need those particular ones again? Drafts, worksheets, and data that went into a final report or project submission may never be looked at or accessed again. If such information is required, and we are able to locate it again, would it suffice as it is, or would it require us to produce a new submission? Keep this in mind as we eveluate what is or is not important for us to retain.
Computers will hold a lot of information, but they are not endless. Also, the more they store, the longer it may take to retrieve something and the greater the potential for data loss or file corruption.
Being held back by the past
By retaining receipts, documents, cancelled checks, drafts, memos, and so many other normal business paperwork, are we getting bogged down and limiting our productivity? If we really need to retain documentation, can it be scanned and saved? Just because we have files on our computer, are they worthwhile? Can we access them? Are there simply too many from too long ago?
To move forward and undertake new projects, accomplish new outcomes, and create more value for ourselves and the public, we may find it much easier to operate with fewer challenges in the way of paper, documents, or data accumulation.
Looking ahead to the new year
As we launch a new year and get ready for the many positive outcomes awaiting us, let’s make room for them by eliminating some of the surplus items from our lives and offices. By discarding what isn’t helping us any longer, we are making room for what is coming.
Anytime throughout the year is a good time to discard what we no longer need or what isn’t helping us to move forward. This time of year is especially appropriate for this cleaning activity.
However, let’s not wait an entire year to do this again. This is a constant, ongoing effort to keep what is important and moving us forward while we eliminate what is weighing us down.