I'll admit it. I like software. If I find a new program or utility that looks useful, I'll go out an run it to see what it does. And the nice thing about Windows is that there are so many freeware utilities to choose from.
It's hard keeping up, so I let eConsultant do it for me. They keep a list of freeware for download, grouped by function. Want to convert miles into kilometers? There's freeware for that. Just seach for "convert" on the page and find it.
Note: Some of these utilities are designed only for experts, especially if they're dealing with the Windows registry. If you're not sure about one, don't use it.