I have a confession to make. I am attached to my laptop. I fall asleep with it running near my bed. When I wake up, I check my email before I brush my teeth. As a freelance writer, my livelihood depends on a steady connection and speedy applications. Last week I reluctantly put my MacBook in the hands of a computer repair friend and he noted, “You have computer separation anxiety.” While CSA is not (yet) recognized by any psychology journals, there are some options to lessen the fear that comes from being away from your computer.
These apps can keep your business running whether you are sneaking your iPhone with you on a family vacation* or working through lunch.

Dropbox It’s easy to work across multiple computers when I put my work in progress in Dropbox. It’s secure and syncs quickly.

Pulse I like the interface for this app. I can stay on top of news and keep up-to-date on all my favorite sites with the swipe of a finger. It’s easy to scroll back for archives and share favorite articles.

iCal Keeping track of meeting times with clients in different time zones can be tricky. I like setting email reminders of important events. This app is also cool because I can import my Google calendars as well.

GoDocs Continuing my Google obsession, my workday would not be complete without Google Docs.  I use the spreadsheets to keep track of mileage and expenses.

PayPal I like knowing when a client makes a payment. Through Paypal, I can send invoices for unpaid bills.

*Please note that I do not advocate sneaking an iPhone on family vacations. I hear it is healthy to unplug and bond with those who still love you.

How do you remain productive away from the office? Let me know in the comments if I missed any awesome apps.

iPhone 4 image courtesy of Apple.