My study has always tended to be deadline driven, last minute crazy inspiration fueled by impending deadline counting in hours. That got me through BA, two masters, CFA, but PhD (part-time) will need more discipline. I write lists upon lists of tasks, but rarely reach the tail end. Perhaps it is time to mix it up.

2015: one new language (course), one professional certification exam, a few conference presentations, a new job (?), Oh yeah, and PhD proposal and registration..

I find the other side to lack of focus is being tempted by distractions, what is a good strategy to manage both?

I finished a distance UK MSc a couple years ago, and looking for follow up have discussed with a few professors/researchers back home - home of the free (unis that is) I started fleshing out a proposal half a year ago, but lost some steam.
I have research ideas but struggle to get buckled down, looking for inspiration..
In my professional world, regulatory compliance, I have professional circles, occasional conferences, but I would really like to dig deeper, beyond laws and regulations, into the power structures and ideologies.
I always think about plan B, C, D and this a no-brainer really. Many peers have crashed out of financial services into.. I could say oblivion but that is harsh, various second careers. It takes time to get revved up. Nice forum, hoping to find soul mates..