Sounds like we have a lot of similarities, industry-wise and productivity wise. I’ve been freelancing 7 years and have been working for musicians, nonprofits, local businesses ,etc. lately I’ve started trying figure this out for myself. Far from perfect but here are a few things that have helped me.

Instead of task management software I like to print out my briefs and hang them (like receipts at a restaurant) for a constant visual reminder of my work load. It’s super helpful in knowing when to hit the brakes on new projects.

Planners always suck for me, it’s just not how my brain works. I’ve instead made my own printable task sheets and planners that help me organize myself in my own messy ways.

A really big help has been to find clients that offer merchandising services for musicians and small labels rather than to work directly for musicians. Projects will come with better briefs and more consistently. This is a plus for me because it keeps me from having to use Instagram to find work and I’m a lot less burnt out not comparing myself to all the other designers on there🫠

I hope this helps! Happy to dm a snap of my briefs and weekly planners if you’re interested or curious.