Paperless is the way to go. All the cool kids are doing it. Moving your finances entirely online is “green” and smart, right?
Not so fast. The idea that paperless is always best is a myth.
It’s not actually the best way to learn new skills or concepts. Good old tactile tools like pencil and paper make things literally and figuratively, more graspable. If you don’t believe me read this recent study about typed vs handwritten notes.
Paperless is supposed to mean convenience. But have you really thought twice about who this actually conveniences? We think it’s a convenient way for you to be kept in the dark about your money, prevents planning and leads to more spending. Mighty convenient for those who stand to gain from your spending. Not so convenient for your peace of mind. Basically, we’re suggesting that the convenient ‘out of sight, out of mind’ evidence of your spending is not your financial friend.
For my fellow environmentalists with concerns about the strain on our resources, rest assured that your overall waste and drain on the planet is actually reduced when you’re clear about where your money is going.
So this week’s tips are about going “anti-paperless.”
1) Collect receipts
If this isn’t already your habit, you’ll probably forget sometimes. Just keep trying. If you begin now it’ll become second nature by January. Keep them in an envelope. At the end of the month label the front of the envelope with the month and year. There are several uses for these receipts, but more on that later (and of course in our Budgeting and Banking & Credit Card Workshops.)
2) Receive paper statements
Holy mother of paper, here’s where it gets real. Bank statements. Credit card statements. Bills. All of them. Every month. Either request that companies mail them to you or print them out yourself. We’ll help you organize this stuff in our Organization Workshop.
Go ahead and throw a mini tantrum, resist, procrastinate and then just do it 🙂
Your future financially fit self thanks you now!
By your side,
Chelsea & Olivia
P.S. Feel free to spread the anti-paperless movement and forward this to anyone who can use the knowledge… AKA everybody!
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