## Avoiding the Rabbit Hole: Time Management for Indie Devs

It's easy to get sucked into the open-source rabbit hole. Here are a few tips for managing your time:

*   **Set Realistic Goals:** Don't try to do too much at once. Start with small, manageable tasks.
*   **Schedule Time:** Block out specific times in your calendar for open-source contributions.
*   **Prioritize:** Focus on the tasks that will have the biggest impact.
*   **Don't Be Afraid to Say No:** If you don't have the time to contribute, it's okay to say no.
*   **Automate!** Automate any routine tasks you can, such as running linters or tests.

## Long-Term Vision: It's an Investment, Not an Expense

Ultimately, contributing to open source is an investment in your future. It's a way to level up your skills, build your network, establish your reputation, and accelerate your indie dev journey. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it.

I've come to view open source not just as a place to learn, but as a powerful extension of my own skillset and reach. We stand on the shoulders of giants, right? It's only fair that we contribute back and help others do the same.

So, what are you waiting for? Find a project you love and start contributing today!

## Call to Action

Think about the open-source projects that have helped you the most. What's one small contribution you could make to pay it forward this week? What valuable open-source tools are crucial to your workflow? Share your favorites (or your contribution experiences) on your platform of choice!