Also known as a pending file system or a tickler file, the incubator will keep all documents that require follow-up in one place. This file should be placed within easy reach but out of sight. A good place might be the top of a filing cabinet, or, if space is short, on a windowsill.

Here is what you will need:

• A hanging file holder
• 12 hanging folders
• 31 manila folders
• Felt-tip marker and a pen

First, label the hanging folders with each month in the year. Arrange them chronologically with the current month in front. Then, label the manila folders from 1 to 31. Put the folders for today until the end of the month in this month’s folder. Put the remainder of the folders in next month’s folder.

So, if today is March 12, my incubator will look like this:

• March 12
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • Through to 31
• April
  • 1
  • 2
  • Through to 12