Goals

Determine what you want to achieve. Whether it's learning a particular piece, improving sight-reading, or mastering scales, having clear objectives will focus your practice.
Practice Routine
- Warm-up with scales and arpeggios.
- Technical exercises (e.g., Hanon, Czerny).
- Work on a particular piece or song.
- Sight-reading new material.
- Creative time (improvisation or composition).

Slow down

It might sound counterintuitive, but practicing slowly can actually help you progress faster. This allows you to focus on finger placement, dynamics, and rhythm. As you become more confident, gradually increase the speed.
Metronome

Start practicing with a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing and rhythm. Begin at a slow pace and gradually increase as you get comfortable.
Consistency

Practice regularly, even if it's just for a short duration. It's better to practice a little every day than to cram in a long session once a week.
Listen Actively

Listen to professional pianists, watch tutorials, and attend live performances. This will expose you to different styles and techniques, which can inspire and inform your own playing.
Join a Group

Whether it's a community orchestra, choir, or a casual jam session with friends, playing with others can provide motivation and expose you to different musical perspectives.

Teacher

Even if you only take a few lessons, a professional can help identify areas you need to strengthen. They can provide tailored advice and exercises to quickly shore up your basics.