I work really hard to create track templates that allow me to have everything availible already for a tune, but do not automatically steer me into a specific direction.
After that; Depending on my mood, it's either 1. a riff (lead or bass or both) or 2. my drums. Then i build up most of the arrangement, usually pads/texture will come rather quickly. Next, with the arrangement mostly done, it's time to work on synth lead/bass/etc tones.. Efx, modulation, +. After that, it's on to the mixdown, and I'm done.
My main thing is to move around enough that I don't get bored.