1. Clean/organize your computer for productivity

Start off with your desktop. If you've got desktop icons with images that don't display or you've got stuff on there that you don't even recognize, your desktop could use some work. Delete unused icons to clear the space. If you need to add the icons in the future, it's not a problem. Also, usually if the icon image doesn't show up, the problem may have been deleted and the icon references something that doesn't exist.

If you have programs that are similar in function or work together, it's a good idea to create a folder and place them inside of the folder on the desktop. It conserves desktop space and looks a whole lot better. One folder looks a lot better than 10 icons on a desktop.

2. Scan for viruses

People who write viruses don't want you to have an enjoyable computing experience. Many times while we're sitting at a computer being bored, they are possibly writing the code for the next big virus. During our boring times, we can scan our computers in an effort to be proactive and make sure we are up to date.

3. Scan for spyware

Second only to virus scanning in my list of important to-do items is spyware scanning. If you're ok with giving away all of your information, that's fine with me, but I'd rather not give mine away. Having spyware on your computer is the equivalent of having an ID theft criminal standing up next to you when you enter your pin at the ATM. You could be giving away your information unknowingly.

4. Defragment your hard drive

While you're in the mood for making your machine run more smoothly, go ahead and defragment the hard drive. This will essentially arrange your files to make them more accessible.

5. Play a game and release some stress

This list wouldn't be complete without a fun item to close it out. If you want to have some fun in a boring time at a computer, just go to Yahoo! games, MSN games, or www.addictinggames.com. There's plenty to keep you entertained.

Devin Dabney is a computer consultant, author, speaker, and entrepreneur who is the founder and CEO of DabneyWorks Computer Consulting. DabneyWorks provides remote and in-person computer assistance, website design and auditing, and business consultation.

For more information, visit http://www.dabneyworks.com