Go through the pile of post

Open, sort and deal with any mail that has piled up.

Why it helps

Unopened post can hide bills and deadlines. Sorting it removes a hidden source of worry.

How to do it

1. Open every envelope.
2. Make piles: action, keep, and recycle.
3. Deal with the action pile or note its deadlines.

Make it easier

Open only the last week's mail.

Make it harder

File the keepers in labelled folders.

Shred anything showing your name, address or account numbers.