5. Replace your old monitor

Instead of upgrading your computer, consider investing in a new monitor. You're probably still using one with an old-fashioned square-ish shape, which limits your ability to work with more than one program at a time. But for $250 or so, you can get a flat-panel monitor with a wide screen - a smaller version of the flat-screen television monitors found in so many living rooms.

The wide format is ideal for viewing DVDs or movie downloads. But the wide screen is just as valuable when it's time to work. Even an older machine can run lots of programs at once. With extra screen real estate, you can easily keep two or three programs constantly in view. Suddenly you're more productive, even if your computer's no more powerful than before.