A sketch a day requires a sketch book handy, out in the open handy. The pens and pencils attached is a good idea that prevents hunting for them aka a window of opportunity to find something else to do/become distracted. Once a sketch routine is established, daily drawing is easier.
Portraits. Deciding to focus, for now, on faces is the practice I need. The sketch above, (done from a photo of moi), covers half a 9x12 inch sketchbook page. Eventually, I hope to paint my portrait.
Drawing is all about practice/sketching.