Balance

Balancing your life can get very difficult if you work on something in your free-time.

I work as a software engineer on my day job, and I've decided to also work on my game in my free time. I basically had 3 choices:

1. Sleep less
2. Work less
3. Have fun less
   

Let's examine these possibilities:

1. Sleep less: if you don't want to or cannot  experiment with polyphasic sleep schedule, it is quite impossible. I recommend to always sleep enough, and be well rested. You need all your brain power. You can even exercise more: I've invested in a pair of quality running shoes, and I go run whenever I can (usually twice a week). Sittting in front of the computer is not very healthy, and exercise helps you sleep well too. Sometimes I can think about future features during run. It does worth to exercise instead of coding once or twice a week.
2. Work less: without changing job that is quite impossible. Be respectful to your employer. But try to have a tight schedule, and don't work overtime! Now that you have your own project you need every minute. Timebox your workday. I try to be a little bit early too rather than staying later, but whatever your preference is.
3. Have fun less: I've actually chose this one. And for me "have fun less" means "go to pub less" and "drink less". I won't have hangover, and I have more time. Friday is still "after work pub" day, but that one is kind of scheduled now. I didn't cut back on general internet browsing, and games, my other fun activities. I don't turn down occasional invitations either (barbeque, restaurant, etc...).
   

Very important: don't steal your time from your family, partner, or other people who you are close to (including pets). It can be very difficult, but if they understand that this project is very important to you they will understand.

Good luck!

PS.: Don't cut back on hygiene ;-)