Many of us can't really escape from the inevitable need to stay with our computer all day. After all, the work has to be done. But what if there was a way to spark up your computer's desktop a little more? What if there was a way to take you on a little adventure, without ever leaving your office chair?

Welcome to the magical world of an active desktop calendar! (Also known as 'personal information manager' or digital calendar). No, it's not an immediate fix to long hours of typing, nor will it serve you up fresh ideas and the best local coffee...

But... an active desktop calendar is still a great office tool nevertheless. In fact, one reason they're so incredibly cool is because they can provide a relaxing 'landscape' to disappear into... And that sure is nice if you spend a lot of hours at your desk staring deeply into your PC or Mac companion...

What happens is that the 'visual background' (ie: your computer's desktop, or LCD screen), changes into selected photographic images (backgrounds) and scenery of your choice. Within that background, you'll be able to integrate calendar features that you need and use.

And this all happens automatically, while you're busy doing other things!

In any case, here's five good reasons you'll want to consider using a desktop calendar for your home or workplace...

1. Desktop calendars (especially the 'active' calendars) conveniently change their picture (background) every month, or whenever you want them to. This just means that you get to enjoy a surprising, fresh kaleidescope of different pictures and imagery, every month...

2. Active desktop calendars are quite possibly more healthy for you! Not sure about that? Well, just ask yourself this... which type of computer background would you prefer to look at? One with an awesome nature photograph... or a plain blue background busy with lots of little to-do folders stuck all over it?

3. They're convenient... Contact friends and colleagues, see all future dates, plan out what you need to accomplish and quickly see the day's appointments, all at the click of your mouse...

4. You're the boss of the 'screen candy' that gets seen by anyone looking at your computer. Many digital calendars will allow you to add photos of your choice. What are you waiting for?! Go and upload all the photos that are important to you! Let's see... travel, nature images, animals, um, people? What about adding your most wanted goals and desires to the list?

For example, motivational images tend to work well... as they constantly give you a 'subtle' reminder of your important goals!

And speaking of screen candy, if you'd like to download a selection of inspiring nature based images (free) to use in your desktop calendar then just pop over to http://www.great-printable-calendars.com/digital-online-calendars.html (Save them where you'll easily remember them on your hard drive - and then upload to your calendar).

5. There's also the more advanced desktop calendars too, and these usually cost a few dollars to buy and will amaze you with their magical abilities. (OK, not quite, but you'll still be impressed). Let's see... how about... show more than one month on the desktop, integrate with Outlook, share appointments with other people, set alarms, add your own pictures to the desktop background...

Like we said, an active desktop calendar won't serve you coffee, nor will it (unfortunately) do all the work for you! You've still got to put in the elbow grease and have a good dose of healthy discipline. But, meanwhile... just remember, the more organized you are, the more productive you are!