I actually don't unlock my laptop but instead take a look at my "cheat sheet" of "What do I want to achieve". It consists of three pages: (1) a personal code of conduct and ethical guidance (a long list of copy and pasted things from all over the web as well as things I've read as well as things I've seen and experiences and learned over the years that I think I should do); (2) a long-term goals (rather static); (3) weekly objectives (NOT tasks!).<p>Before I commit myself of spending time of something I ask myself: how does that contribute to any of my goals for this week, or any long term goal, or is in line with my ethics code? I then make a list of things I need to do today or want to learn or think would make sense for today.<p>THEN I open my calendar and task list and check and prioritize my activities: decline meetings that are not aligned with my objectives; prioritize tasks that are essential for today or this week; defer tasks that are not urgent; make sure I have enough time in the day.<p>I also know which hours of the day I am most productive for coding vs. reading vs. relaxing vs. writing vs. learning -- trying to mill through Excel Sheets at 2pm is a bad idea.<p>This morning routine also prevents me from procastination and "reading up" on "interesting sites" -- once you realize what's ahead of you today, how that contributes to something you always wanted to do or learn, you probably realize how to spend time better and feel more satisfied.