setting a goal for the day, or week, and then making progress towards that goal seems to be one of the elements of success...
I tend to plan a few days ahead, like I already know what I've got to do next week and how that's all scheduled (not that i'll stick to it).
Here are my tips to productivity.
1) Plan stuff, just don't sit down and try to think of ideas - it ain't gonna happen.
2) Plan when your gonna do the stuff you planned.
3) Get a Whiteboard and write down some structure to your plans. (Don't put it behind you like I have 'cause you'll never look at it!).
4) Get a desk diary and structure your day around the plans.
5) Attempt to keep away from forums. Some people have smoking breaks, I have forum breaks (yeah right!).
6) Don't spend too long trying to sort out a programming issue or spend too long on one task. If something does your head in then move on to the next thing - chances are your brain will figure it all out whilst you're having a @#!* or something.
7) Always try and achieve something positive, you'll feel much better.
8) Never try and do too much, if you can't find the time to do something don't be afraid to say so.
9) Drink beer, dream more plans and forget them by the morning.
10) Tweak plans and never forget to tell you bank manager how it's all going! Return to Step 1