Of course, I tell myself that unlocking my creativity, becoming organized, taking control of “the grind” is simply a matter of finding the right tool or process for the task. The truth of the matter is an AlphaSmart would likely gather dust because I’d never use the thing (and why would I? I’m surrounded by computers!), and the methods for reorganizing life offered by Merlin Mann and his ilk don’t help at all if you’re not willing to get off your ass and actually put something into motion. That’s where I tend to slip; motivation and drive aren’t exactly my strong points.

Good luck in your quest. I’d join you, but my couch is way too comfy and there’s a backlog of Doctor Who episodes to catch up on.

And yet, days at a time, I avoid the office and I leave the Powerbook shut. There is SO much information to read/grok/comment on/learn from/covet that no matter how much time I spent, it’s bewilderingly insufficient.

I long for the days without email, but now by ignoring my inbox I potentially miss a message as banal as my next door neighbor asking to borrow a ladder or as important as a special friend having passed away.

One solution I read about a writer who was so distracted when on his computer trying to work was to use a word processor only machine. No surfing, no chat, no email. No distractions. I’m in the market for a typewriter.

My digital life is certainly not as complicated as yours, so if you can find a way to manage endless sources of communication and information, surely I can. I look forward to your insight.