6:58:08 pm

I will put the time I started writing the post as the time. That way we can all see if I spend too much time on the posts.

Today was pretty good. There were two extremely productive times. One occurred after I left the tutorial lab at about 11:00 am, but before I left for lunch at 1:40pm. The other ended just now, but started at about 4:00 or 5:00 pm.

During those times, I managed to avoid distractions and work on the important things. I worked on the 408 nm laser. I also helped everyone move the vacuum chamber into place and I cleaned up my workspace, which makes me feel a lot better. My lab notebook notes were good.

I swung by Staples after lunch and I think I took too long there. Also, there was a lot of time when I would get distracted with intermittent web-surfing.

I wasted some time in the tutorial lab. I had to be there, but there were no students. I left, so that was a good use of time.

Also, I've noticed that I always waste time before getting to work. So, after the natural and good breaks (after getting in, after getting back from lunch, and even after helping move that vacuum chamber) it's almost like I have some list of things I have to do before getting started again, except that really they are just a waste of time--mostly I'm just putting off working and trying to do something that requires little effort--like surf the web.

Also, I didn't even really get into the zone between getting back from lunch at 4:00 or so and moving that vacuum chamber.

There were a couple of instances where I noticed a temptation to be distracted and I managed to ignore it. I was mostly tempted to check my email. Part of the allure is that it's nice to sit down and part of it is that I love getting emails. However, I only get enough emails to justify checking it like 3 or 4 times per day at the most.

Overall, I'd say today was OK. There were steps in the right direction, but I feel like there's a lot more productivity to be gained.

My goal for tomorrow is to write on this blog again. Also, I'm hoping to consciously try to get to work quicker--no more aimless stops along the internet.