Everyone organizes paper items differently--there is no right or wrong way. Some people feel better when things are in strict order, while others are perfectly happy with organized clutter. Finding your comfort level is the most important aspect of dealing with excess paper.
Personally, clearing away the chaos makes me feel less stressed. When our tabletops--from the kitchen to bedrooms--disappeared under mountains of incoming mail and such, I knew I needed help. I was spending too much time finding lost items.
