Getting the piece out from around the shifter can be tricky. (This is the part that the window switches are in). There are two screws under that, and there are two screws in the lockable storage thingy at the back, under the little piece of carpet. Taking those four screws out, and using the above advice on how to take the e-brake handle off (See Zorro's post) will get you ready to remove the console.

IF you are concerned about scratching anything, have at least one think towel ready to cover the shifter area after you pull the console up and forward, over the e-brake handle. There will be an air hose attached to the lock mechanism for the storage compartment, gently pull and twist it until it comes off. You can unplug the mirror switch harness (and if it's a Roadster, the top button switch harness) and pull the whole thing out to work on out of the car.

On an automatic, you remove the little trim piece from around the shifter first, then pop up the remaining trim from inside the shifter opening at the back. It then lifts out.

I THINK removing that piece from around the shifter in a 6 speed would be even easier - but unsure since I don't have a 6 speed. Seems like you could just stick your fingers down at the back of the shift boot and pop the piece free like you can in an auto once you get the little trim frame out.