You tend to opt out of new ideas because it sounds ridiculously simple: how could such a basic thing work? Well, that's the beauty of simplicity. You must trust the process. Create and maintain progress lists on paper. If you type it, the exercise won't count. Something special happens when paper and pen collide. As you complete tasks, cross 'em off. Then start new lists and transfer over the undone projects. But wait! Don't toss those scraps of paper. Preserve your work. It's a great way to remind yourself how productive you really are.