For your first step to clutter-free living, clean out "the drawer." You know the one—where all of your important receipts, coupons, bank statements, and other documents get thrown in a messy jumble. But don't feel overwhelmed: With the right organization, you'll never have this much clutter again. Begin by taking everything out of the drawer and dividing it into three piles: high importance, low importance, and trash. High importance documents should be bills, live checks, and personal documents (such as insurance or identification papers). Low importance documents are active coupons, letters, and invitations. And as for trash, be thorough; throw away all expired coupons and used envelopes, and shred outdated bank statements.

Subdivide your high-importance pile into two sections: money matters and personal effects. Place your personal stuff, from your passport to your birth certificate, in a small box or folder in the back of your drawer. Then, organize your money-matters pile in order of importance, with the most pressing bills on top. Use a drawer divider to keep your piles in place. As for your low-importance pile, subdivide it into coupons/receipts and social engagements, filing both in order of date, and placing each pile in separate boxes or folders. Your important documents now should be in four to five organized areas in your clean drawer, arranged so it makes sense to you.

If you feel like paper documents are too difficult to keep track of, think about ending the paper trail and managing your money online. You can check your account balance, transfer money between accounts, and pay your bills in an easy and secure way, all online. All you have to do is sign up on your bank's website, and you'll be able to conveniently handle your checking, savings, and credit card accounts.

... to keep up your organized documents, and not let stress, a packed schedule, or other family members disturb your system. Be sure to take 30 minutes every week to sort your piles or check out your accounts online, and keep everything up-to-date. Soon, you'll find that your bills are paid on time, your RSVPs are ready to go, and your checkbook is always where you need it to be. Committing to organization is what makes it work. So take the time to get it in order, and start enjoying the benefits.