Making a livable income writing on the internet is certainly possible, but you have to do a LOT of writing because the industry pays so little. The key to increasing your income potential is to learn the art of maximizing your productivity.

Create a Functional Writing Space

Carve out a space that's specifically designated as a work area. This could be an extra bedroom, a corner in the kitchen, or even a walk-in-closet--as long as it's comfortable and quiet.

Hire Someone to Help with Your Children

Small children are a handful. So consider hiring an in-home-helper or enrolling them in a once-a-week childcare program. This will allow you to get more work done on those days, and increase your income potential.

Increase Your Writing Speed

Increasing your writing speed is a must if you plan to making a living writing online. Simply put, the faster you type, the more money you'll make. So keep practicing. Soon your brain won't be able to keep up with your fingers.

Set Boundaries with Friends and Family Members

A common misconception among friends and family members is that because you work from home you're allowed goof off whenever you want. They don't understand that you have deadlines to meet, research to complete, queries to email, and so on. Being able to establish boundaries with friends and family can mean the difference between paying your rent and being homeless.

Prepare Your Work Load for the Next Day

Before closing shop, take a few minutes to prepare for the upcoming workday. Have your research notes ready, pencils sharpened, and your "to do" list on your desk. The less fumbling around you have to do, the more productive you‘ll be.

Don't Waste Time Staring at the Computer Screen

If you get stuck on a project, don't hinder your productivity by sitting there glaring at the computer screen. Move on to another assignment. You can always go back to the piece you were working on later.

Take days off to relax

I know it's hard to do because your office is always there. There are always articles to write, emails to check, books to update, and work to hunt down. But working too much will cause you to burnout, and hinder your ability to be productive.

Take care of yourself

Fuel your body with the right foods. Drink lots of water and get plenty of exercise.

Doing these things will enable you to maximize your productivity and improve your income potential in record time.