I think you nailed how to create a brand without burning yourself out.
The two biggest items for me that you mentioned, are eliminating distractions, and writing down ideas. If I don't set my phone aside, it becomes a late day poor quality article or no article at all. Also, jotting down ideas has saved me so much time in the creative process. Otherwise, I am conjuring ideas with 2 hours or less before I want to post my article, and that doesn't work out well.
Great job brother!
RE: How To Build Your Personal Brand On Steemit Without Burning Yourself Out