Just set an aim for daily playtime/count, seems to be working out for me (15.5k global don't judge G&R overlords). You'll go through times of slow progression and then suddenly you'll jump, all depends on your day.
Personally an engaging map pool that you play first thing when you log on is a potential idea (this pool is flexible obviously); and if you design it so that you are challenged from the get go then you should see improvement OVER TIME. Don't expect instant success, or you are wasting time.
Just my two cents.