How to stay motivated when working on projects by yourself? My advisor told me that I needed to be an independent researcher, so I came up with a project by myself.  But I don't really work on it because there are no deadlines and no one else is involved with the project.  Also I stopped having regular meetings with my advisor, so he is no longer there to kick me in the butt when I don't do any work.

I spend most of my time procrastinating, working on coursework, and being a TA.  TAing and problem sets are things that actually do have hard deadlines and involve other people, so I end up working on that stuff instead of my research project.

How can I stay motivated to work on my research project?  I have barely done any research for months.
In my experience doing an independent research project, one of the most helpful things has been to remind myself why I thought my project was worth doing. If you can periodically re-excite your interest in the project, you may find yourself wanting to spend time on it. Those have been my most productive times.

Also, meet up with your advisor on a regular basis, even if it's only once every quarter or something (more is preferable). If it will help light a fire under you, set a meeting a few weeks in advance, decide on something you'll show them/discuss with them at the meeting, and use the meeting as a mini-deadline.

It's all about carrots and sticks. Remind yourself why you're doing it; remind yourself that it won't be so nice if you don't do it. Reward yourself for meeting milestones. Make yourself keep milestones.

Also, if you're experiencing any health issues (mental or otherwise) related to this, don't be afraid to seek help. There are often resources nearby, and you're better placed to do good research if you look after yourself.