"I love Google calendar because I can create a list of things I need to get done tied to each day."

I've tried using Google Calendar for creating task lists before and haven't hit on something that I like. There's third party programs of course, but syncing has been a bit cumbersome for me. So I'm curious, ow do you use GCal for creating lists?

Also, I've found a great tool, similar to Pomodoro, that has really helped me become more productive.

http://visitsteve.com/made/selfcontrol/

It's called Self Control. It can actually cut off internet activity, etiher to specific sites or the entire web, for a predetermined amount of time, between 15 min and 24 hours. I love setting hour long increments that are internet free. It also has a handy timer that let's you know when you'll get your fix again.

scriptnotes: I say lists when it's really just events in the calendar.

* Create new event: Input the information.

* Save.

* There it is along with all the other day's tasks and events, all in this nice little stack in my calendar.

When I complete the task, I open it, change the color to blue, save.

I'm sure there are better programs out there, but this syncs up with my iPhone, so it's pretty seamless.

I've heard raves about Self Control.

The internet is a writer's two-edged sword, isn't it? Incredible for research and resources, but a horrible temptation to screw around and not write. Self control, whether an actual program such as the one you've mentioned, or the old fashioned kind -- sheer willpower -- is key to whipping that monster.

Damn...

I thought you WERE a robot. That would have been pretty cool! : )

Thanks Scott!

Hey Scott-
Thanks for the Pomodoro idea. I tried it yesterday and this morning, (I'm on my 5-minute break right now), but I wrote more in three sessions than I had the previous week. Somehow knowing that clock is ticking and you've got to get the words down (edit later), filters out all your self criticism.

Just wanted to take a second to say thanks for all of these posts! They have been insanely helpful and insightful and I look forward to checking them out every day.
-Adam

@jjg: Happy to hear it!

@Adam: Happy to hear that, too!