So much information!
From the moment we are born we have vital information attached to our existence on this earth. In most countries, it starts with a birth certificate, hospital/birthing center records and social security number.
As we age and our families grow so do the amount of vital records and important information we are expected to keep up with.
- Marriage licenses
- Divorce documents
- Our children’s birth certificates and social security numbers
- Death certificates
- Drivers licenses and I.D. cards
- Current and previous addresses
- Military records
- Passports
- School transcripts and grades
- Resumes and work history
- Medical records
- And more…
We have vital records and documentation for all the milestones in our lives, and it can be a lot to keep up with.
How to keep track of the important information
In Day 12 of the Declutter, De-stress, Simplify Challenge, we talked about setting up a filing system. This is a great start. Knowing where are your vital information is helps you keep track of all the numbers, data and information.
However, it can still be time consuming and frustrating to find certain data like the exact date you filed an insurance claim or your deceased parent’s insurance policy number. These are not fun things to deal with, so having the information at your fingertips can resolve some stress.
Getting your ducks in a row
If finding what you need, when you need it is important to you then, I recommend recording the data from your vital records in a secure and convenient manner. I know, from personal experience, how much easier life is when your ducks are in a row.
For instance, I was able to tell my dad’s doctor exactly which medications he is currently taking. I could tell the doctor the dosage and date everything was prescribed. This came in very handy during a stressful situation. I had better records than the doctor’s office!
It’s also been nice to simply copy and past my vehicle ID numbers online when I’m renewing my vehicle registration. Sometimes, the little things are the best things in life.
If you aren’t sure what you should be keeping track of and how to create a digital system for your vital information you can save yourself the headache by taking my new Ducks In A Row Course = I’ve already done all the legwork up for you.
Today’s assignment:
- Continue to purge old paper clutter
- Start setting up a filing system
- Consider getting your Ducks In A Row
Day 13 Recap:
- After you declutter your paper work and vital documents you can consider organizing and decluttering your important information – there’s so much information!
- Having an efficient filing system will help you more quickly find information attached to your vital records.
- You can also consider saving your information in a secure digital format.