In most of the stories and poetry I've written I've incorporated my own life, whether it be experiences, familiar places, personality traits of characters, etc.
Save everything!! I've lost so much of my writing over the years because I didn't think it was significant. Now I go back and read old things and wish I had more of them.
Make sure you're not sacrificing your mental health. If there's something you can't or hate doing (editing, proofreading, designing book covers, etc.) outsource it and save yourself the stress. Celebrate even the small milestones. Pat yourself on the back, you're doing great.
