I can understand the desire to increase productivity, but I often think we too easily try to combat our nature. For example, I tend to be very unproductive for a lot of the day and then have bursts of incredible productivity during which I do more in an hour than many do in half the day. I tried to fight that, but realized that the way my brain works is I map things out in my mind in almost an unconscious way, I mull over ideas (also semi-unconsciously). This is followed by a burst of productivity. This works for me and I've come to realize I don't need to fight it.<p>But since I'm aware of this, I've changed some things. For example, during my "down" time, I try not to get get too deep into other mental pursuits, I avoid dealing with things that might cause stress, etc. Basically, I try to ensure that when I'm ready to switch to productivity mode, my mind is clear and I'm ready to work. I'll even try to do some things that are arguably productive, even if it's not productivity towards my main work goals, for example reading documentation or guides on new tools I'm using...that kind of thing. Nothing too hands on or deep, but something that does make me better at my work.<p>I think you need to accept that's how you work and admire the diversity of creative/productive/mental "styles". Actually, you said it yourself! "I often need around 30 minutes of wasted time to make my mind to actually start working." What's the problem then?<p>So I don't really have direct advice for you. If it just takes you 30 minutes in the morning to get going, so be it. Have a coffee, do some reading while you ready yourself mentally for work.<p>The other variable number of distracted periods during the day is probably the bigger (or only) issue as I see it. For that, I'm afraid I don't have much advice, but maybe some of the points I made above are relevant.<p>EDIT: one way to think about it, perhaps, is that whatever your brain needs, it's going to get one way or another. You can't just ignore it indefinitely. Like, if you just tried to use sheer willpower to stay focused when your mind is begging you for a little break, you might be able to delay giving into that for a bit (which might actually be fine), but make a mental note that you're feeling the need for a break and schedule to take that in N minutes or later that day - basically at a time during which you reasonably feel it might be less problematic to be in your less productive mode. Point is, rather than trying to deny your nature outright, you can use your knowledge of yourself to reduce, what you perceive to be, the ill effects of your style. So plan around your tendencies instead of trying to ret rid of them.