alt Hacker NewsNice. Yeah, my rule was "after the first hour, I can do whatever I want for the rest of the day." And I too found, it was much nicer to keep going! First of all, my work was quite enjoyable. (I'm sure that helped a lot!) But also, it just feels good to be getting things done!
"Distract myself with nonsense" has some appeal... but "keep winning" has more.
Also, I "ironically" found it easier to do something every single day. In theory, every other day should be easier, because it's less work, right? But the loss of momentum and the addition of friction (is today a rest day or not?), especially in those "sleepy moments" of the day... for me it's just too risky! So I just jump into action before there is time for my brain to protest :)
I found the 'every day' approach also works for exercise. Instead of a mon/wed/fri or other such routine, I just go every day and do something. Even when I feel a bit crap (not sick, that is the only exception), I still go and just do some light cardio or something easy. Always feel better after doing so. It also removes any decision stress.