What [MENTION=857]FDG[/MENTION] and [MENTION=13377]pinkgraffiti[/MENTION] definitely works. It's gotten better/easier as I've gotten older. I have a lot more will-power to get things done (ha...the inner nagging voices get louder as I age!) and for longer periods. I've also learned to anticipate and enjoy the feeling I get from finishing some mind-numbing, tedious task...an excuse to celebrate!
Oh something else, I find it immensely helpful to have everything I need right there at my side. If I have to get up and fetch anything, it's really hard not to go flitting off in search of something more stimulating and before I know it, I've wasted a huge chunk of work time. Music is good but nothing too stimulating. The TV being on or having other people around is okay but again. The background stimulation helps keep me anchored but too much and I will abandon what I'm doing.
I think it's funny how several of us have mentioned 'talk to others' breaks. I do this, too.