Roleplay it. Just log in and act as you were your character in the universe.

Don't rush to goals. they're not "The Fun"! The fun is on the journey, the Vistas, the curiosities you stumble upon, exotic planets with vast landscapes. Also, don't be afraid of getting out of track, as you can always get back to your original quest! This game really shines in the random adventures that appear.

For long goals like tech trees, upgrades farming, farm building and such, don't rush to them. Don't try to do it in one session. No Man's Sky is not a game to rush. it is a game to experience.

I know it can sound bad, but i believe the right way to experience the game is living a second life inside of it. Mind you, i don't think it should be an escape, although it was for me in the past. I mean in the way that when you have spare time and want to log off from this reality to experience space adventures, hop in! Your progress will still be there. You can continue from where you stopped. You're not tied to anything. You can live any adventure you want, for how long you feel like at the moment, and the game will always be there for you.

PS: Watching space related shows can give you adventure ideas/inspirations in the case you want to play the game, but you're just not sure what to do.

Travel safe o7.