Taming the Paper Tiger is not just a software program - it's a complete methodology you can use in all aspects of your personal and professional life. Consider these possibilities:
- Continually eliminate clutter from your life. Practice The Art of Wastebasketry®. Ask yourself, "What's the worst possible thing that could happen if I didn't have this?" If you can live with your answer, toss it!
- Clutter is Postponed Decisions®. Organize the top of your desk: In Box for papers you haven't looked at (not a place for postponed decisions!). Out Box for things you need to take someplace else. File Box for papers to file in places you can't reach from your desk.
- Sort papers/e-mail using The FAT System: File, Act, Toss. Organize files into two types: Reference Files (things you don't know if you will need, but are afraid to toss) and Action Files (things you need to do or delegate).
- Utilize a database program, such as Outlook or Act!, for storing names and contact info.
- Store all the electronic data you create in one electronic folder, such as My Documents. Then name documents with a series of key words and phrases (up to 255 characters). Use the Search feature of your computer to quickly find electronic files - just like Paper Tiger!
- Create templates/checklists for things you do repeatedly, so you are not constantly reinventing the wheel. (Packing lists, meeting planning, etc.)
- Make a list of the best results you want each day.
- Don't be afraid to ask colleagues/supervisors for help when you run into a problem. Frequently something that is difficult for you to do is easy for someone else - and vice versa. You will get the best results if you focus on what you do best!
- Implement the "Just in time" reading method. Instead of creating a pile of publications to read someday, quickly scan the table of contents for articles of interest. Then use The Paper Tiger software to file them quickly so you can access them by keyword when need to read them!
- Continually ask yourself "Is this the best use of my time right now?" Use your Paper Tiger Action File Index as a powerful tool to make sure you working on your most important projects.
