What's the best way to balance coding and freelance work?

I totally get where you're coming from - it can be tough to balance your own projects with freelance work, especially when you're just starting out. I've been in a similar situation before, and I've found that setting aside dedicated time for my own coding projects has been a lifesaver. Try allocating a specific day or time slot each week where you only work on your personal projects, and stick to it as much as possible.

Another thing that's helped me is to prioritize my coding projects based on what I want to achieve in the short-term and long-term. For example, if I'm working on a freelance project that's going to take up a lot of my time, I'll make sure to schedule some time for my own projects a few weeks in advance, so I can keep my skills sharp. It's also important to be realistic about how much time you have available - don't try to take on too much at once, or you'll end up burning out.

I think it's great that you're recognizing the importance of balancing your freelance work with your own coding projects. It's easy to get caught up in the urgency of freelance deadlines, but if you don't make time for your own projects, you'll start to feel like you're not growing as a developer. By finding a balance that works for you, you'll be able to stay motivated and keep your skills sharp, which will ultimately benefit your freelance work as well.

So, I'd say start by taking a closer look at your schedule and seeing where you can carve out some dedicated time for your own projects. Remember to be flexible and adapt to changes as needed - it's not always going to be easy, but it's worth it in the long run. Good luck, and I hope you find a balance that works for you!