[dstein]

The trick is to alternate between high intensity and low intensity work when it feels right to do so. But to always be making some notable progress. Some days I just need to zone out, I can't concentrate, so instead I brainstorm, make a todo list, download some new github project, upgrade your tools (I spent yesterday installing Lion and almost nothing else). Do all that housekeeping work on those off days when your brain needs a rest. Don't worry so much about extending those super-productive peroids, but rather learn to ride the lower-productive ones such that you get back in the groove quickly.