[I had a little baby at the end of last month. So I am writing this preliminary draft with a little guy on my belly. I hope to get back to it soon.]
Working tasks are of four types : read, write, execute, archive. For a sysadmin, that may be the orderly way to see them. For an intellectual worker, it describes the process backwards.
First, Archive. Backup and publish, control and commit is the reason why we seriously bother about computers. So first things first. Besides, archiving uploads to memory what needs to be done.
Second, Execute. What needs to be done is seen. If archiving is not too long, there is energy to get feet moving.
Third, Write. Texts are saved, things are done. Clerical work is taken care of : time to pursue one's lifetime work.
Fourth, Read. Informational stuff. Inspirational stuff. Informal stuff. Whatever that helps gather energy and seek inner peace.
The above principle sets priorities, not necessarily a daily routine. Reading is not an end it itself : it should prepare publication. Nonetheless, it is a nice activity to set at the end of the day, for it prepares well for tomorrow, let alone sleep.
The above principle presumes that there is Writing and writing. Sending an email with a credit card number is no writing per se : this is mere execution. Consultation of a reference source is no reading in the sense outlined. This should be quite obvious.
