Start the work at the same time every day.

For independent creatives, there is no rule more important than this.

The creative work is ambiguous and unpredictable. In order to sustain it, we need to create predictability and consistency. Starting every day at the same time, helps us gain that surety. Moreover, when we do it over and over again, we create space for creativity and inspiration..

This rule is the cornerstone for someone to move from being an amateur to embracing professionalism. Moreover, by breaking this rule, we start moving from professional territory back into amateur territory.

When someone asks, what time do you start work, the answer needs to be clear and automatic. There should be no doubt over when you sit down to work.