• Remove all dinosaurs.

Are you using out-of-date equipment or old versions of computer programs? Determine how much time you're wasting using slow and inadequate equipment and programs with limited capabilities. What is the bottom line of all of this wasted time? Computer prices fall regularly, so determine if your time is worth investing in a new computer system. The money you’re saving by not buying new equipment may be costing you in lost time and productivity. The same rule applies to daily planners. If the system you are using (whether paper-based or electronic) no longer meets your needs, find a new one.

• Control incoming information.

It’s difficult (and time-consuming) to read everything, yet it’s easy to get caught up in information overload, the need to keep every publication you receive. You may keep this information because you believe that one day you’ll read it. In reality, that day never comes. If you know that you'll never read something, get rid of it. If you ever need an article from a past issue, search for it online. Better yet, consider converting your printed subscriptions to online ones.

• Develop the urge to purge.

Some people keep information “just in case” they need it one day. They fear that the minute they throw or give something away, they may need it again. The first symptom of the need to purge is stacks of magazines, newspapers and paperwork scattered throughout your office. Keep in mind that when you need something, you may not be able to find it amidst the clutter you’ve accumulated. Something is worth keeping only if you’re able to locate it within minutes instead of hours.

• Keep only what you use.

Not everything has to be "used up" before it’s discarded. Donate an old computer, replaced long ago by a faster, smaller model, instead of stashing it in the corner of your office. Various charities welcome computer donations. Before you donate a computer, however, make sure you clear the hard drive completely.

• Know What to Toss and What to Keep.

Take the "Toss or Keep" test to determine whether or not you should keep something. 1. Have you used this item within the past year? 2. Is the item serving a specific purpose? 3. Do you have a place to store the item where you will find it again? If you answered no to any of these questions, consider giving the item away. If you decide to keep the item, make sure you have a specific place to store it.

Without technology, files and resource materials, you would have a difficult time handling daily tasks. When all of these tools, however, threaten to hamper your productivity, it’s time to take back your office.

About the Author:

Lisa Kanarek is a leading home office expert, frequent guest on radio and television programs and author of four books. She’s the founder of HomeOfficeLife, a firm focused on aspects of working from home including office design, functionality and productivity.