it's structured procrastination but it's still procrastination my friend. I think the most dangerous thing about procrastination is that you create new tasks for yourself that seem useful, when in fact they are completely unessential.
I've been using something called iFocus http://www.ifocusonwork.com/ You can use it to track how you spend your computer time, and set goals for how much you can use certain things (email, chat, games etc.). You can also make it force you to work on a specific application for a fixed period of time. Basically a tool for procrastinators or people who are mindful of how they spend their computer time.
You are absolutely right that what it takes is just making a habit. The beginning is the hardest part. I actually created a small piece of software for myself to do just that: start working on something. It's called iFocus http://www.ifocusonwork.com/ and I posted it online for everyone to use. You can make it force you to work on a specific application for a fixed period of time. You can also use it to track how you spend your computer time, and set goals for how much you can use certain things (email, chat, games etc.). Basically a tool for people who want to get something done or for those who are mindful of how they spend their computer time.