Out with the Old?

As 2024 draws to a close, I've been throwing out paper. Tax records are easy (only required for seven years), as is most medical material (which can be accessed online now).

What about writing ideas? I have a drawer of them. (Well, half of one. Other files are for books I'm working on or contain research materials.)

A few years ago, I scanned the contents of some folders, but that was using an older computer. I doubt I could put my hands on the digital files. Should I start over? What are the chances I will write those pieces? 

Of course, I've convinced myself that if I toss any of the material I will later decide I should have kept it. 

I've developed some "keep or toss" criteria, though I won't commit to applying them. Ask yourself:

1) If finding the material in a file does not make you remember when (or why) you wrote it, will you really use it?

2) When is the last time you added even a paragraph to the sample chapter or proposal?

3) If the ideas were jotted on napkins, is the paper still intact?

4) Do you want anyone else going through the folders after you die? (This is a more relevant question for older writers but, heck, that bell can toll anytime.)

Answers will vary, but my guess is the process will get easier when you run out of filing space or you trip over a pile that's too big to put in a drawer.

Happy New Year!

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