What works for me is the following: - Exercise. I work out 3-4 times a week weight lifting and cardio. But any rigorous exercise would do. - Break down tasks i

What works for me is the following: - Exercise. I work out 3-4 times a week weight lifting and cardio. But any rigorous exercise would do. - Break down tasks into small chunks. Write them down or put them on your todo list. Work on one at a time. - Cross off one of your tasks a day. Even if it is very small, the point is making progress. - Rest. If you're tired and can't work, then there's no point in trying. Take a break, take a walk, go out, or get a good night's sleep. Try again the day after. - Take vacations. Muscles adapt to increasing amount of effort if you give them enough rest. Your mind doesn't shut down so take much longer to recuperate. Do something fun every once in a while.