Start with a bounded workday
Choose a specific window for opportunity review and proposal work. A bounded session makes it easier to judge output without letting the marketplace consume the entire day.
Track the time you intended to spend and the time you actually spent. The gap is useful operating data, not a reason to add more process.
Separate finding from writing
Scan and qualify opportunities first. Draft only after you have a short list worth pursuing. Context switching between search and writing makes both decisions slower.
Close the loop
Record what you sent and revisit replies and outcomes. A routine becomes valuable when yesterday’s results improve today’s choices.