James, a few years ago I would have agreed with most of your tips; however, now I’m sure that being organized and planning your projects realistically is the best for most web developers.

I prefer waking up early to get the most complex work done in the morning, many times I’ve had a few good ideas during sleep and I can quickly solve problems that looked so difficult the day before, when I was tired.

Eating well, and at the right times, is a very good advice. I also like cofee, it does help to be alert and more focused, indeed, but I just drink one cup a day and that’s all. Smoking? Thank you but no, that just makes you feel more tired.

Ideally, you shouldn’t need to depend on any kind of stimulants to increase your productivity.

I’d suggest using your days for working and your nights for having a good time with your family, your girlfriend or doing something else like watching a movie, reading a good book or enjoying some Sitepoint’s articles.

Good luck!

Normally I’ll get into work and have a look over the collected emails. I’ll dog-ear anything that needs to be addressed first thing in the afternoon and look for anything else that might effect the work I’m about to start. I only respond to emails that require nothing more then a few words in response but nothing extensive. Granted I don’t get too many emails but it lets me prioritise my workload.

Then, once I start working, I don’t respond to emails or IMs unless it’s emergency stuff. Normally I solve the IM issue by doing an “away from my desk” away. Usually all I get then are quick notes. Though, another way around this is to not give out IM except to inter-company stuff because then you avoid the nonsense we’re not discussing. Bets balance is contactable but not too contactable. If a client can get to you any time they wish they will and you’ll never get work done.

That’s why I designate the first half of the day to pure work. Then I’m guaranteed to get at least something done.

Don’t say better time management, I’m required to do and attend all of these. I use GTD approaches on everything and It’s not until after 6:00 when the world quits that I can actually work on projects.

Management doesn’t understand if you say it’s too much, they’re doing it also, plus more since they’re a level or two higher.

Like it or not, “work life balance” is just a recruiting phrase. In reality, they’ll fire you if you can’t keep up.

I’m lucky to have this job.

7. Drugs - visit the local dealer and get off your face. Your work will be brilliant and those beeping sounds on your computer will make you feel like you’re proper raaaaaaaavin!

Nearly as bad as the other 6.

a shower with Shower Shock Caffeine Soap Travel
from http://www.thinkgeek.com/caffeine/

(Y)

maybe you can’t do it at the office, but
hot shower, or get down for a couple of pushups .

they both increase the bloodstream speed making you more awake.