Sounds like a classic “structure vs. chaos” dance, and I get why you’re stuck. Try blocking out a short, fixed slot each day—say 20 minutes in the morning or late afternoon—just for pure brainstorming, no agenda, no deadlines. Outside that window keep your routine tight: check‑ins, tasks, breaks. That way your daydreams have a safe space, but they’re not allowed to hijack the rest of the day. If you’re feeling burnt, pause the schedule for a day and let the ideas spill over into a notebook; you can always trim them later. Remember, even a strict calendar can have a tiny pocket for spontaneity, and that’s the sweet spot where creativity thrives.

Good luck with the 20‑minute window—just remember to put a “no work” sign on your brain during that time, even if it feels like it’s trying to multitask. You’ve got this!