Junk mail wastes more time (and paper!) than any other kind of mail. Some people like receiving unsolicited notices and catalogs or sales fliers, but most of us don't. One way to stop wasting your time reading is to stand while you sift through the mail — right next to the wastebasket. If you see something you haven't requested, toss it before you even open it. Be careful with mail from credit card companies or your bank, however. You should put these through a shredder to prevent identity theft.

In addition, ask the post office not to pass your name on to any lists. One of the ways they do this is by using your change-of-address cards. Request that they keep your name and address private.